Vitamin B9, known under the name of folic acid, is important for a properly functioning nervous system and immune system. It also plays an important role in the development of red blood cells, genetic material (DNA) and healthy growth during pregnancy. Vitamin B9 is part of the vitamin B complex.
Source
Vitamin B9 is naturally found in vegetables (especially asparagus, Brussels sprouts, spinach, broccoli and leafy vegetables), fruits, whole grain products, nuts, eggs and to a lesser extent milk and milk products.
Effect
- Good for combating stress and helps in case of fatigue.
- Plays a role in immune system, memory, concentration, learning performance, state of mind and normal cell division and cell renewal.
- Important for women who want to become pregnant. It supports growth of the unborn child during pregnancy. Vitamin B9 contributes to the development of the nervous system that is being developed from the first day after conception. It lowers the risk of having a child with congenital defects.
- Plays an important role in the development of amino acids and red and white blood cells.
- Very important in the division of the cells during growth.
Shortage
A shortage of vitamin B9 can lead to defects in the red and white blood cells and to bone marrow changes. A shortage may also result in a reduced uptake of various nutrients in the intestine. Other symptoms are poor appetite, weight loss and fatigue.
A shortage of folic acid in women in early pregnancy increases the risk of giving birth to a child with spina bifida, cleft lip or cleft palate.
Overdose
No adverse effects are ever observed of a high intake of natural vitamin B9, that is present in the diet. Who receives more vitamin B9 than he or she needs, pees out the surplus.