Folate refers to the naturally occurring form of Vitamin B9 found. Folate is crucial in synthesizing DNA and promoting cell division.
Maintaining an appropriate folate level at around 400 μg/day is necessary to promote health.
Folate deficiency can lead to various clinical conditions and diseases, namely Folate-Deficiency Anemia and Neural Tube Defects in newborn babies among other things.
A good folate level is important for good cognitive functions throughout life. Low levels of folate have been recently linked with higher chances of stroke and heart diseases. Folate deficiency can be avoided by consuming food with high folate levels (dark green leafy vegetables, beans, poultry, and citrus fruits) or folic acid supplements.
Folate is a key component for red blood cell formation and cell growth & function. It can be naturally found in dark-green vegetables, peas, beans, nuts and some fruits.