Folic acid is a nutrient found in many foods. It is a baby-making nutrient that reduces the risk of birth defects and preeclampsia. This article will discuss the benefits of consuming fortified foods. Read on to find out more about this vital nutrient.
Fortified foods contain folic acid
Fortified foods have been added to many foods to increase their content of folate. These foods can be natural or synthetic forms of the vitamin. To boost folate levels, people should increase their consumption of leafy green vegetables, beans, and avocado. They should also reduce their intake of red meat. Red meat is rich in zinc, another nutrient that is needed by the body.
It’s a baby-making nutrient
Folic acid is a B vitamin that is particularly important for women who want to become pregnant. It protects against some serious birth defects and is essential for the development of a healthy baby. You can get folic acid in food supplements, but it is also present naturally in many vegetables, fruits and nuts.
It reduces the risk of birth defects
Research has shown that folic acid can reduce the risk of birth defects in babies. The risk of neural tube defects, which are common during early pregnancy, is decreased with folic acid intake. These defects, which can result in lifelong disability or stillbirth, include spina bifida and anencephaly.
It lowers the risk of preeclampsia
Folic acid is a key component of multivitamins, and a recent study suggests that they may lower the risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. This effect may involve folic acid, but other nutrients may be involved as well. Unfortunately, the effectiveness of this preventive strategy is still uncertain.
It may reduce the risk of colorectal adenoma
Folic acid, taken on a daily basis, may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by preventing the development of adenomas. It may also help prevent recurrence by preventing the development of advanced lesions. One study, conducted by Logan et al., found that folic acid and aspirin may reduce the risk of colorectal adenoma.
It may help prevent cancer
Folic acid is a nutrient found in leafy vegetables and may help prevent cancer. It is also added to flour in some countries to protect fetuses from birth defects. The vitamin is crucial for DNA replication and may prevent changes in DNA that may lead to cancer. One study found that people who took folic acid had fewer precancerous lesions of the larynx. This condition affects about 5% to 10% of heavy smokers and can turn into cancer if left untreated.