Folic acid, also known as folate, is an essential vitamin (vitamin B9) that our body needs to accomplish a number of internal and external functions. According to the researchers, it plays a vital role in cell division, helping in the production of our genetic material, DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). Read more about Benefits of Folic Acid For Our Health
It also actively participates in the growth of cells and tissues. The development of a healthy brain is not possible without a sufficient folic acid in the diet. Apart from that, the nutrient is pretty much essential for proper maintenance of our skins and hair. In short, folic acid is an indispensable part of our diet and we should consume it in adequate quantities.
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Dietary Sources Of Folic Acid
The best thing about folic acid is that it is found abundantly in most of the common foods present in our daily diet. Some of the best natural resources of folic acid are: green leafy veggies (broccoli, spinach, etc.), cauliflower, root vegetables, carrots, lentils (legumes, peas, beans, etc.), nuts, corn, Brussels sprouts, red bell peppers, asparagus, tomatoes, artichokes, edible mushrooms, papayas, bananas, avocados, berries (raspberries, strawberries, etc.), citrus fruits (melons, oranges, etc.), fortified cereals, meat (poultry, kidney, pork, and liver meat), shellfish, whole grains, dairy products, eggs, wheat bran, and so on.
Benefits Of Folic Acid For Health
Folic acid offers a wide range of health benefits and here is a list of the same:
1. Eases Pregnancy
The most important health benefit for folic acid is its ability to make pregnancy sweet and effortless. A woman should consume a lot of folate during her pre-conception period as well as pregnancy as well as prescribed medications. By increasing the chances of conceiving to ensure proper development of the fetus (growth of the skin and hair cells), this nutrient can help us a lot while taking in sufficient quantity. Folic acid can also prevent miscarriages, premature birth, low birth weight, congenital anomalies of the neural tube and the risk of lip and palate cracking.
2. Averts Diabetes
Regarding the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes, the need to include a sufficient amount of folic acid in our diet can not be ignored. It can decrease the amount of fat present in our bloodstream, thus effectively managing obesity. This may help prevent the occurrence of type 2 diabetes.
3. Takes Care Of Heart
The recommended intake of folic acid can help us maintain good cardiovascular health. It regulates and maintains our blood pressure stable with its balanced ratio of sodium and potassium. It is able to prevent the absorption of cholesterol so that the flow of blood stays smooth throughout our body. Being high in magnesium, it can also mess up the heart muscles easily. All this is necessary to keep cardiovascular diseases such as blood clotting, hypertension, heart attacks, etc.
4. Stops Cancerous Growth
Folic acid has a surprising ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Regular intake of folic acid in sufficient quantity can help us fight certain types of cancers (breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, etc.) by preventing tumor cells To multiply.
5. Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease
Patients with memory loss caused by aging and other associated brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s, can find extremely helpful folic acid intake. It improves the function of our brain cells, thus greatly enhancing our memory.
6. Cures Anemia
Folate plays a key role in the formation of Blood Blood Corpuscles in our blood, which is beneficial for anemic people. As it ensures reasonable growth and number of red blood cells, enough blood is pumped into our body and we can avoid any symptoms of anemia.
7. Smoothens Menstruation
Folic acid can reduce the depletion caused by large flows during the menstrual cycle. It provides enough red blood cells to our bloodstream, which ensures good circulation throughout the body and greatly improves the condition.
8. Aid In Digestion
Folic acid, along with other nutrients like vitamin B and vitamin C, can help with remarkable digestion. It facilitates intestinal movements, puts an end to constipation, cures stomach disease and digests as well as the use of protein in our food. All this ultimately improves the entire digestion process.
9. Treats Depression
Folic acid can improve your mood by regulating the chemical levels of the GABA neuron in our brain. As a result, our brain functions normally and we can move away from stress, tension and depression.