Folic acid needs to be consumed along with B12 and C vitamins for its breakdown in the body and participation in enzymatic activities. Additionally, due to its water-soluble nature, folic acid cannot be stored in fat tissues. Therefore, since the excess is excreted from the body through urine, it is essential to continuously replenish this vitamin through foods and supplements containing folic acid.
 |
| Causes of Folic Acid Deficiency |
Contributing factors to folic acid deficiency include:
- Diseases that hinder the absorption of folic acid in the digestive system, such as celiac and Crohn's disease.
- Excessive alcohol consumption.
- Overcooking vegetables and fruits, as folate is lost at high temperatures.
- Hemolytic anemia disease.
- Kidney dialysis.
- Unhealthy diet lacking sufficient vegetables and fruits.
Symptoms of Folic Acid Deficiency During Pregnancy
Folic acid is one of the essential vitamins needed by women during pregnancy because as the fetus develops, folate is required for DNA formation. The deficiency of this vitamin can lead to abnormalities in the fetus and placenta, hindering the normal division and growth of cells, ultimately causing abnormalities at birth. If sufficient folate intake is not ensured before or during pregnancy, it can result in neural tube defects, affecting the baby's brain and spinal cord functions.
Neural tube defects include:
- Anencephaly: A condition where parts of the fetus's brain and skull are missing.
- Spina Bifida: A condition resulting in abnormalities in the spine and nerves.
Symptoms of Folic Acid Deficiency
Folic acid deficiency indicates that an insufficient amount of red blood cells is produced in the body. Consequently, when there is a lack of folic acid leading to anemia, symptoms of this condition begin to manifest.
As the deficiency becomes more severe, the symptoms of folic acid deficiency include:
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Headaches
- Sores in the mouth and on the tongue
- In pregnant women, the specific concern of having a baby with neural tube defects.
