Folic Acid
(Tetrahydrofolate)
Food Sources: spinach, asparagus, and green leafy vegetables.
Adult Female ( RDA ): 180 mcg.
Types Available: Folate, folinic acid is the most active form.
Beneficial Effects: Folic acid is necessary for development of the nervous system and the RDA in pregnancy is 400 mcg. For many years it was known that folic acid lowered homocystine levels and that high levels of homocystine were associated with heart disease and osteoporosis. It is only recently, that this information is becoming widely known. Folic acid should be taken along with vitamin B6 and B12 as they all influence homocystine levels. Mild cervical dysplasia has been observed to respond to high doses of folic acid, especially if you are taking oral contraceptives. High folic acid dosages have also been used to treat depression.
