What is Folic Acid used for?
Folic acid, also known as folate is a type of B vitamin (B9) which is naturally found in some foods such as grain products, but can also be taken as a vitamin supplement to treat certain conditions such as megaloblastic anemias. Folic Acid is used by the body for red blood cell formation and for healthy cell growth and function.
Folic acid is taken to prevent and treat low blood levels of folate, and high blood levels of homocysteine. It is also taken by women in early pregnancy or women who plan to become pregnant to reduce the risk of miscarriage and serious birth defects such as spina bifida. Folic acid is also used to treat other conditions such as stroke, depression, declining thinking skills and declining memory. It is also taken along with some medications which reduce folate in the body, such as methotrexate.
