Benefits Of Vitamin B9 Supplements
Benefits Of Vitamin B9 SupplementsFolic Acid, Folacin, Folate
Vitamin B9 is essential for mental and emotional health. It is necessary for proper brain function, being concentrated in the spinal and extra cellular fluids. It also increases the appetite and stimulates the production of hydrochloric acid; which helps prevent food poisoning and intestinal parasites, as well as assisting liver performance. Vitamin B9 is active in cell division and performs its basic role as a carbon carrier in the formation of heme, the iron containing protein found in hemoglobin necessary for the formation of red blood cells. It is also needed for the formation of nucleic acid, which is essential for the processes of reproduction of all body cells and growth. During pregnancy the fetus, meeting its need for rapid growth, easily depletes the mother's reserves. Any interference with the metabolism of folic acid in the fetus encourages deformities such as cleft palate, brain damage, spina bifida, slow development and poor learning in the child. Therefore, folic acid should be taken six weeks before conception. Health Benefits Of Vitamin B9 - aids in the use of vitamin B12 - beneficial in treating - dropsy - leg ulcers - menstrual problems - sprue - stomach ulcers - considered a brain food - formation of red blood cells - functioning as a coenzyme in DNA and RNA synthesis - helps prevent heart disease - helps prevent a birth defect known as spina bifida - helps regulate embryonic and fetal development of nerve cells - key element in keeping blood, mucus membranes and nerves healthy - key element in keeping hair, nails and skin healthy - important for healthy cell division and replication - involved in protein metabolism - may be effective in the treatment of uterine cervical dysplasia - may help anxiety and depression - protects against cancer - used in prevention and treatment of folic acid anemia - vital for normal growth and development Vitamin B9 Food Sources Avocados, barley, beans, beef, beets, bran, brewer’s yeast, broccoli, brown rice, celery, cheese, chicken, citrus fruits, dates, fortified cereal, green leafy vegetables, lamb, legumes, lentils, liver, milk, nuts, okra, oranges, orange juice, organ meats, split peas, pecans, pork, root vegetables, salmon, seeds, tuna, wheat germ, whole grains and whole wheat. Signs of Deficiency: Anemia, diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, impaired cell division, inflamed red tongue, loss of appetite and paleness. Folic acid deficiency is more likely to occur among those who have gastrointestinal or mal-absorption, pregnant women not taking vitamin supplements, women taking oral contraceptives, teenagers who have a poor diet and alcoholics. Other deficiency symptoms may include confusion, memory problems and other mental changes. Any illness accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea that interferes with the absorption of food can result in a deficiency. Medical Uses of Vitamin B9 Anemia, arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, constipation, depression, diarrhea, gingivitis, gout and heart attack. Possible Side Effects And Warnings: Vitamin B9 is considered safe, however, high doses may hide the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency. Antacids can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B9. Drug interactions are possible between folic acid and some antibiotics and medications for seizures and malaria. The use of oral contraceptives could increase the need for vitamin B9. Vitamin B9 is easily destroyed by high temperature and exposure to light.  |
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