Folic Acid
Folic acid is the most common term for water-soluble B-vitamin that can be found naturally as well as in vitamin pills. Found naturally, folic acid is actually referred to as folate, while folic acid refers to the synthetic form of the vitamin. (For reasons of simplification, this paper will use the two terms interchangeably.)The functions of folic acid in our diet are mostly for prevention. Probably the most commonly known function of folic acid is in the prevention of neural tube diseases. Research has shown that the increased intake of folic acid can decrease the risk for such birth defects as spina bifida, which affects the fetus's brain and spine. With an increased intake of folic acid by the mother, it is estimated the 70% of some types of serious birth defects can be prevented. The recommended daily allowance of folic acid is .4 mg per day. Anyone who follows the recommended daily food pyramid that includes 3-5 servings of vegetables, 2-4 serv
This change was largely due to the research indicating that prior to this; only about 25% of childbearing women were regularly consuming enough folic acid. It is hard for recommendations to be made due to this; however, the FDA suggests that total folate consumption should not exceed 1 mg per day unless otherwise directed by a physician. The US Public Health service strongly suggests that all women thinking of becoming pregnant or who are pregnant should either follow this regimen or supplement their diet with vitamin pills. Other than neural tube defects, it has been discovered that a folate deficiency can, in part, contribute to the onset of chronic fatigue syndrome. While it is essential for functioning of the human body - especially in periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy, and fetal development as well as the prevention of many ailments - there is concern for how much is too much. Like anything, however folic acid is most beneficial in moderation. In conclusion, it is obvious that folic acid is a positive addition to our daily diets. The effects of a high-intake of folates are not well known due to the difficultly in tracking average intakes of folic acid (since it is found naturally in so many common foods). Studies have been done concerning vitamins pills primarily. Research also suggests that low folate levels are linked to an increased risk for heart and cardiovascular diseases as well strokes. 5 mg of folic acid and would be within safe limits. Other ailments associated with folate deficiencies include an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. In light of these findings, scientific support of folic acid is divided.
Common topics in this essay:
Public Health,
ACID Folic,
folic acid,
found naturally,
found naturally common,
naturally common foods,
obvious folic acid,
increased intake folic,
folic acid found,
birth defects,
intakes folic,
acid found,
increased intake,
naturally common,
recommended daily,
intake folic,
common foods,
|
Acceptance Essays
