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| folic acid |
| Also known as: Folacin; Folate; Pteroylglutamic Acid; PGA |
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What is it? |
| Discovered only in 1945, this B VITAMIN is used by the body both to synthesize and break down AMINO ACIDS and to synthesize DNA/RNA-like nucleic acids, which in turn are needed to build new cells, especially new red blood cells. Its role in preventing two devastating birth defects spina bifida (a condition in which the backbone doesn't envelop and protect the spinal cord) and anencephaly (a fatal malformation of the brain) is so significant the FDA, to ensure that pregnant women receive sufficient folacin, aims to add it to the list of nutrients now being used to enrich flours, cereals, breads and pastas (140 micrograms folacin per 100 grams [3 1/2 ounces] food is the proposed amount). In addition to preventing these birth defects, folic acid may also protect against certain types of cancer (lung, cervical, colorectal) and coronary heart disease. Even so, nutritionists recommend getting folic acid from food, not vitamin pills. There is some concern, however, that too much folacin masks pernicious anemia and makes it difficult to diagnose. |
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