Vitamin B9 Folic Acid

Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid (the synthetic form) or folate (the natural form found in food), is a crucial B vitamin that plays a vital role in cell growth and development. It is particularly important during pregnancy for the healthy development of the baby’s brain and spine. 

Appearance:  Yellow to orange-yellow needle-like crystalline solid, tasteless and odorless

Solubility: Soluble in water; insoluble or very slightly soluble in ethanol and other less polar organic solvents.

Melting Point: 250 °C

Folic Acid is a Natural folate is found in leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale, broccoli), legumes, nuts, eggs, liver, citrus fruits, and fortified grains. Folic acid is added to fortified foods like cereals, bread, pasta, and supplements, and it is better absorbed than naturally occurring folate (about 85% vs. 50% bioavailability)

Vitamin B9, known as folic acid (synthetic form) or folate (natural form), provides numerous health benefits:

• Supports Healthy Cell Growth and DNA Synthesis: Essential for making and repairing DNA and RNA, critical for cell division and growth.

• Prevents Neural Tube Defects in Pregnancy: Supplementation before conception and in early pregnancy significantly reduces risk of birth defects of the brain and spine such as spina bifida.

• Supports Red Blood Cell Formation: Helps prevent megaloblastic anemia by aiding proper red blood cell production.

• May Reduce Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: By lowering blood levels of homocysteine, a risk factor for heart disease and stroke, folic acid may support heart health.

• Potential Role in Brain Health: Some studies suggest folate may reduce risk of cognitive decline, memory loss, and depression.

• May Help Prevent Certain Cancers: Evidence suggests adequate folate intake might reduce risk of some cancers, though research is ongoing.

• Supports Maternal and Fetal Health: Critical for healthy fetal development beyond neural tube closure, including brain and spinal cord formation.

• Other Uses: Sometimes used to manage side effects of certain medications (like methotrexate) and to treat folate deficiency anemia.