LORENA CARBONI
Senior Scientific Communication Specialist, Product Manager, Gnosis by Lesaffre, Desio, Italy

Abstract

Folate is the generic term for vitamin B9, a water-soluble vitamin found naturally in many foods, including dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, and legumes. It is required for DNA replication and as a substrate for various enzymatic reactions involved in amino acid synthesis and vitamin metabolism. The prevalence of folate deficiency is quite variable worldwide. The leading causes of folate deficiency are low intake, malabsorption, or drug use. Patients of all age groups may develop folate deficiency; however, primary age groups include preschool children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Thus, it is essential to consider the conditions associated with altered folate status and their consequences.

Vitamin B9 is recognized as a mandatory vitamin supplement during pregnancy for its essential role in cell division and DNA synthesis. It is involved in rapid growth and development periods, such as pregnancy and childhood. Folate vitally contributes to the child’s skull and spinal cord development. Low levels of this vitamin, before and during pregnancy, can lead to neural tube defects (1).

Yet, folate is essential for many other conditions, like cardiovascular health, fertility, mood and cognition, and bone health, due to its impact on homocysteine levels. Humans must maintain an adequate dietary intake of folate during the various stages of their lives, contributing to many other body functions. The impact of folate on homocysteine supports many aging conditions, including fertility, cardiovascular health, bone health, cognitive support, and more. (1).

Clinical evidence is beginning to reveal this, highlighting folate’s potential as a superior alternative to folic acid, which is the standard for food fortification and practitioner-recommended supplementation.