Folic acid is a synthetic compound present in vitamin supplements and fortified foods, meanwhile folate is the natural form of folic acid. Consuming folate/folic acid reduce risk of having stroke, but excess consumption of folate/folic acid also cause other health problems.
As shown in the above graph:
- When the folate/folic acid concentration in our body in too low (<400 ug), there will be high risk of suffering from both stroke and cancer.
- When the folate/folic acid level in our body in too high (>1000 ug), there will be high risk of developing cancer.
- Using P4 test to monitor folate/folic acid level can ensure folate/folic acid concentration in our body is within the safe range (between 400 – 1000 ug).