Folic Acid

Folic acid is produced synthetically through chemical synthesis and is then converted in the liver and tissues to active tetrahydrofolate forms.

It prevents and treats folate‐deficiency anemia, reduces high homocysteine levels, and—crucially—prevents neural tube defects such as spina bifida when taken before and during early pregnancy.

Adults generally require 150–400 mcg daily; pregnant women are advised to take 400–800 mcg daily; breastfeeding women 260–800 mcg; and children 25–400 mcg depending on age.

Natural folate is abundant in dark leafy greens (spinach, kale), legumes (beans, lentils), broccoli, avocado, citrus fruits, eggs, and beef liver.

Folic acid is generally safe at recommended doses; excessive intake above 1 mg/day may mask B₁₂ deficiency and can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, sleep disturbances, or rash in rare cases.

Yes—400 mcg daily before conception and through the first trimester significantly reduces neural tube defect risk without adverse effects.