Folic acid (a B vitamin) is considered a brain food, and is needed for energy production and the formation of red blood cells. It also strengthens immunity by aiding in the proper formation and functioning of white blood cells. Folic acid may also help in the treatment of depression and anxiety.
Folic acid may be the most important nutrient in regulating homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is naturally formed in the body as the result of the breakdown of another amino acid, methionine. In recent years, high levels of homocysteine have been found to be associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries due to the accumulation of fatty plaques). Normally, homocysteine is converted to other, non-harmful amino acids in the body. In order for this conversion to take place, as it should, the body needs an adequate supply of Folic acid as well as of vitamins B6 and B12. Homocysteine levels in red blood cells have been shown to have an inverse relationship to levels of these three important B vitamins – that is, the lower the levels of these vitamins, the higher the levels of homocysteine.
This product:
- May lower homocysteine levels
- Healthy cell division during pregnancy
