Folic Acid vs Folate: Benefits, Uses & Dosage

If you’re like most people, you have heard of folic acid but might not be sure what it is. Folic acid and folate are both forms of water-soluble vitamin B11. They have different fates in the body, though, which is why they are given different names. In this article, we will discuss the health benefits, uses, and difference between folic acid and folate and explain why you need both in your diet!

What is Folic Acid

Folic acid is the synthetic form of vitamin B11.

What is Folic Acid Good For?

Folic acid is used to make DNA and RNA, and it plays an important role in cell division. Folic acid is also necessary for the formation of red blood cells.

Where Folic Acid Can Be Found?

It is found in supplements and fortified foods. Folic acid is naturally found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds. It can also be found in fortified foods such as cereals, breads, and pastas. Folic acid is not found in animal products.

What is Folate?

Similar to folic acid, folate is the natural form of vitamin B11.

What is Folate Good For?

Folate plays an important role in DNA synthesis. Folate is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and the synthesis of amino acids.

Where Folate Can Be Found?

It is found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds. It is also available in supplements.

Why Do You Need Both Folic Acid and Folate?

Folic acid and folate are both important for the body. Folic acid is important for DNA synthesis, and folate is important for the formation of red blood cells. Both folic acid and folate are necessary for the synthesis of amino acids.

Other Health Benefits of Folic Acid and Folate

Folic acid and Folate have the following additional health benefits:

  • Prevent birth defects: Folic acid and folate can help prevent birth defects in the brain and spine because it helps form the neural tube.
  • Reduce the risk of heart disease: Folic acid and folate can help reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease because it helps to prevent the buildup of homocysteine in the blood.
  • Treat anemia: Folic acid and folate can help treat anemia by helping the body to produce red blood cells.
  • Prevent cancer: Folic acid and folate can help to prevent cancer of the colon, breast, and pancreas because it helps to repair DNA.
  • Improve cognitive function: Folic acid and folate can help improve cognitive function because it helps to form neurotransmitters in the brain.
  • Reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s: Folic acid and folate can help to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease because it helps to protect the brain from damage.

Dosage

The adult daily dosage of both folic acid and folate is 400 micrograms.

Please speak with your doctor before taking any supplements, as you may be allergic or have other medical conditions that make folic acid and folate unsuitable for you.

Conclusion

Folic acid and folate are both important for the body. Folic acid is important for DNA synthesis, and folate is important for the formation of red blood cells.

Both folic acid and folate are necessary for the synthesis of amino acids. Folic acid and folate can also help prevent birth defects, reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease, treat anemia, prevent cancer, improve cognitive function, and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. dv

The adult daily dosage of both folic acid and folate is 400 micrograms. Consult with your doctor before taking any folic acid or folate supplement.

Thanks for reading!

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References

M.D Mark D. - Healthline Gate Health and Medical Articles Author

About The Author

M.D Mark D. is a Health and Wellness professional writer. Mark has authored many health articles around the following topics: Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Fitness, Nutrition, Pets Health, Mental Health, Medicine, and Supplements.

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