Folic Acid

With Alfalfa - Yeast-Free
Food State Folic Acid is combined in Alfalfa - a plant in which it naturally occurs at good levels.

Food folate and reduced folic acid are part of the water-soluble vitamin B complex and functions as a co-enzyme, together with vitamins B12 and C, in the breakdown and utilisation of proteins. It is active in cell division and performs its basic role as a carbon carrier in the formation of haem, the iron-containing protein found in haemoglobin, necessary for the formation of red blood cells. It is also needed for the formation of nucleic acid, which is essential for the processes of growth and reproduction of all body cells. Folate is necessary for proper brain function, being concentrated in the spinal and extra-cellular fluids. Folate is the key element in the enzyme that makes DNA duplication possible. In surveys conducted, it was found to be one of the nutrients most often deficient in our diets.

Best Natural Sources
Folate is derived from the term “foliage”, which indicates where this vitamin is found: in green, leafy vegetables (broccoli, spinach) as well as oranges, beans, rice, brewer’s yeast, liver, sprouts and leafy greens.

Absorption and Storage
Folate is absorbed in the gastro-intestinal tract by active transport and diffusion through the vascular system, and is stored primarily in the liver. Any disease which has symptoms of vomiting and/or diarrhoea can result in a deficiency. Alcohol interferes with the absorption of folate as well as increasing its excretion. Smoking has a negative effect. Oral contraceptives interfere with the absorption of folic acid.

RDA
The RDA for folic acid is 200μg. Greater amounts are needed during preconception, pregnancy and lactation. Requirements can vary with individual metabolic rates. Stress and disease increase the body’s requirements for folic acid, as does the consumption of alcohol and many drugs. The Government recommend all women of child-bearing age to take 400μg daily to prevent neural-tube defects in foetuses.

Suggested Intake: 1 tablet daily, or take as directed by a practitioner.
Suitable for: Vegetarians, vegans and for people with Candida and yeast sensitivities.
Contraindications: None.
Non-Active Ingredients: Sodium carboxymethylcellulose, vegetable magnesium stearate.
Non GM & Free From: yeast; wheat; starch, gluten; lactose; soy; added colourings, sweeteners & preservatives.
Storage: Keep cool, dry & out of direct sunlight.