Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is a crucial vitamin that plays a vital role in DNA synthesis and cell division.

It helps in the formation of new red blood cells and is highly important for pregnant women to ensure proper brain development of the fetus. Folic acid deficiency is not rare and can have serious consequences on health, especially during pregnancy. This article discusses the causes, symptoms and ways to prevent folic acid deficiency.

Causes of Folic Acid Deficiency

The causes of folic acid deficiency can be divided into two categories; dietary and non-dietary causes.

Dietary Causes

Folic acid is not naturally produced by the body, and we need to obtain it through our diet. A lack of folate in our diet can lead to many health problems, including folic acid deficiency.

The following are the most common dietary causes of folic acid deficiency:.

Insufficient intake of folic acid-rich foods such as leafy vegetables, lentils, beans and fruits
Poor absorption of folic acid due to intestinal disorders such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
Alcoholism, which impairs folic acid absorption and increases its excretion through urine
Dietary restrictions and food fads

Non-Dietary Causes

Non-dietary causes of folic acid deficiency include:.

Medications that interfere with folic acid metabolism such as antiepileptic drugs, sulfasalazine, and methotrexate
Prolonged use of oral contraceptives, which can impair folic acid absorption
Pregnancy, which increases the demand for folic acid
Chronic diseases such as cancer, kidney diseases and liver diseases
Genetic disorders such as homocystinuria and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) deficiency

Symptoms of Folic Acid Deficiency

The symptoms of folic acid deficiency can vary depending on the severity and duration of the deficiency. The following are some common symptoms:.

Megaloblastic anemia (large, immature red blood cells)
Weakness, fatigue, and irritability
Headaches and migraines
Trouble concentrating and memory problems
Poor immune system function
Frequent infections
Depression and anxiety
Pale skin and mucous membranes
Shortness of breath
Heart palpitations
Pins and needles in the feet and hands
Tongue swelling and tenderness
Poor fetal development and birth defects in pregnant women

Treatment and Prevention of Folic Acid Deficiency

Treatment and prevention of folic acid deficiency involve increasing folic acid intake either through a well-balanced diet or supplementation. The following are ways to minimize the risk of folic acid deficiency:.

Eating a well-balanced diet rich in folic acid containing foods such as dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, lentils, and whole grains
Taking a folic acid supplement, especially during pregnancy and while taking medications that interfere with folic acid metabolism
Avoidance of consuming excessive alcohol
Effective management of chronic diseases such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease
Regular physical activity and exercise

Conclusion

Folic acid deficiency is a common health problem that can have serious consequences on health, especially during pregnancy. The causes of folic acid deficiency include dietary and non-dietary factors such as poor absorption and prescription medications.

The symptoms of folic acid deficiency can be subtle, but treatment and prevention involve an adequate intake of folic acid through a balanced diet and supplements. Adequate intake of folic acid is highly essential for optimal health and the prevention of birth defects during pregnancy.