Folic Acid Directory
Folic acid is a man-made version of a B vitamin, folate. Folate is especially important during periods of rapid cell growth, such as during infancy and pregnancy. Folate is needed to make the building blocks of cells known as DNA and RNA. Folate helps prevent changes to DNA that can lead to cancer. Both adults and children need folate to make red blood cells and prevent anemia. Folate also helps the body keep normal levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and osteoporosis. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how folic acid and folate work, what products contain this vitamin, and when you need a supplement.
Medical Reference
Features
Certain nutrients are especially important for women at particular times of life. This article covers nutrition needs for women in their teens and during their childbearing and senior years.
Video
News Archive
Vitamins and
Supplements
Lifestyle Guide
Which Nutrients
Are You Missing?
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.