What is Folate?

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What is Folate?

• Folate is vitamin B9 and the natural equivalent to Folic Acid. It can be found in green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains and eggs.
• Symptoms of Folate deficiency include low mood, lack of energy, muscle weakness, memory loss, pins and needles and mouth ulcers.
• Folate works alongside B12 to support methylation in the body.
• Folate and B12 convert homocysteine to methionine, which can aid weight loss.
• Inadequate Folate can lead to excessive levels of homocysteine which may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease or stroke.
• Folate is essential for DNA replication and cell repair.
• It is required to make healthy red bloods cells and inadequate amounts can lead to megaloblastic anaemia.
• It can prevent neural tube defects, including spina bifida in babies.
• Folic acid is a fortified alternative, which cannot be converted to folate in the body by some people.
• Alcohol can block the absorption of B vitamins, leading to deficiency for both folate and B12.
  
  

How can I check my folate levels?

• A blood test can be carried out, which I can offer on a private basis or provide a GP request.
• I can provide a review and analysis, following an GP/NHS blood test.