Folic acid for older women. Why do women need folic acid?

Folic acid is required by a woman in a certain amount. It is involved in protein metabolism, which means that its deficiency will affect the state of the whole organism. This vitamin has the greatest influence on hematopoiesis and the neuroendocrine system. Folic acid is especially necessary for women after 40, since hormonal levels change at this age. Vitamin deficiency can exacerbate symptoms such as frequent flushing, emotional outbursts, and reduced performance.

Why does the female body need vitamin B9

Folic acid (vitamin B9) enters the body with food and is partially produced by the normal intestinal microflora.

Derivatives of folic acid are called folates. Folates are especially needed by rapidly dividing cells, which is why growing children and pregnant women need them to ensure proper growth and development of the fetus. The nervous system of the fetus can especially suffer from folate deficiency, so pregnant women are prescribed high doses of folate.

After 40 years, folic acid becomes even more important for a woman. This happens because the physiological process of hormonal changes in the body begins. Especially important is the fact that the secretion of estrogens, which supported the activity of not only the reproductive organs, but also the rest of the body, is reduced. The benefits of vitamin B9 are associated with its estrogen-like action.

How folate deficiency manifests itself

Folate is not stored in the body, so it needs to be replenished every day. More than half of women suffer from their deficiency. Most often this is due to:

• deficiency of vitamin B9 in the diet, since it is almost completely destroyed during the heat treatment of products;
• high need for folic acid in certain periods of life (during growth, pregnancy, menopause);
• violation of the absorption of folates in the intestine in various diseases of the digestive system.

The first symptoms of deficiency are loss of appetite, lethargy, weakness, inability to perform daily duties. The mood is also disturbed, the extreme manifestation of this symptom is depression. There is irritable weakness, tearfulness, insomnia at night and drowsiness during the day.

Prolonged deficiency of vitamin B9 leads to the development of megaloblastic anemia. The condition is associated with a violation of the maturation of red blood cells - erythrocytes. Immature giant erythrocytes are called megaloblasts and do not cope with their function of transfer to the organs and tissues of the body.

The disease manifests itself in the form of loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath. Often stomatitis develops in the mouth - aphthous ulcers appear, gums bleed, hair falls out, nails become dull and brittle, memory is impaired, the ability to acquire new knowledge and skills.

All about vitamin B9 - in one video

What is the danger of hypovitaminosis B9 for women

In children and adolescents, vitamin deficiency manifests itself in a lag in growth and sexual development. In the second half of a woman's life, it can manifest itself in the form of an early menopause. Sometimes menopause begins on time (after 40 years), but proceeds with a number of unpleasant symptoms, then they talk about menopausal syndrome, which can develop against a background of folate deficiency.

The most dangerous is hypovitaminosis B9 during pregnancy. It is needed for the development of fetal nerve cells, which not only divide very quickly, but also acquire a certain specialization - they differentiate.

Deficiency is manifested by signs of impaired brain development in the fetus, which can be seen on ultrasound: swelling of the brain, an increase in the size of the head (hydrocephalus), underdevelopment or complete absence of the brain (microcephaly or anencephaly), the appearance of a crack in the spine, when the spinal cord of the fetus and outgoing from it the nerves remain uncovered (spina bifida,) and so on.

Sometimes the changes are not visible, but after birth the child lags behind in neuropsychic development. Against the background of vitamin B9 deficiency, the fetus may also develop other anomalies (heart defects, etc.).

Violations of the structure and function of the placenta are also possible. This can result in miscarriage and malnutrition of the fetus, as a result of which the brain suffers.

What is the danger of an overabundance of anti-anemic vitamin

If vitamins enter the body with food, their overdose is almost impossible. It is dangerous to take medicines and dietary supplements with folates for a long time.

Too much folate will cause vitamin B12 deficiency. This is manifested in the development of anemia and diseases of the peripheral nerves. Symptoms of an overdose of folic acid:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, unpleasant metallic taste in the mouth;
• the appearance of increased anxiety, nervous excitability;
• insomnia;
• various kinds of elements of a rash on the skin;
• sharp paroxysmal pains in the heart.

With an excess of folic acid, the risk of rapid progression of tumor processes also increases, since all rapidly dividing cells need folic acid. If there is no tumor, folates prevent its development, but already in a state of precancer, they stimulate tumor growth.

Folic acid for women over 40

Between the ages of 40 and 45, menopause begins. This condition is also called perimenopause and is divided into 3 periods: premenopause (from the onset of menopause to the last menstruation), menopause (last menstruation) and postmenopause (after menopause).

Menopause is accompanied by emotional disorders, instability of blood pressure (BP), frequent hot flashes, etc. Metabolism is disturbed, which manifests itself in postmenopause in the form of osteoporosis, atherosclerosis and related pathology.

Why do women need folic acid after 45:

• due to estrogen-like properties - it has an effect similar to the female sex hormones estrogen; this property allows, if not eliminated, then significantly smooth out such symptoms of premenopause as hot flashes, sweating, blood pressure drops, palpitations, etc .;
• increases mental and physical performance, improves mood, eliminates depression; this happens because B9 is involved in the exchange of such neurotransmitters (substances through which nerve impulses are transmitted) as the stress hormone adrenaline and the happiness hormone serotonin;
• suppresses skin aging, reduces dryness of mucous membranes.

Why do women need folic acid after 50:

• B9 has anti-atherosclerotic properties - it normalizes cholesterol metabolism, prevents the deposition of atherosclerotic plaques and related diseases of the circulatory system;
• prevents osteoporosis;
• stimulates the synthesis of blood cells;
• stimulates the immune system, thus suppressing infections and oncological processes.

Vitamin B9 for Women's Health

The benefits of folate for a woman are invaluable: children and adolescents grow, their cells are intensively dividing. With a deficiency of folic acid, the girl lags behind in physical, mental and sexual development.

The impact of B9 on a woman of childbearing age is enormous. Under its influence, the neuroendocrine system functions correctly, on the state of which the health and appearance of a woman depends. During pregnancy, it is needed to carry the fetus.

When the physiological aging process begins, folates reduce the manifestations of menopausal syndrome. After 50 years, folic acid for women is a protection against such consequences of metabolic disorders as osteoporosis, atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, etc.

Produce folic acid in tablets of 1 mg. For treatment, doctors prescribe large dosages of the drug (up to 5 mg per day). For prevention, 200 mcg per day (a fifth of the tablet) is enough. You need to take a vitamin once a day.

Folic acid and beauty

Vitamin B9 preserves the beauty and youth of a woman. The cells of the skin epithelium are constantly updated, the skin is rejuvenated. Reproduction of epithelial cells occurs by division with the participation of folic acid.

B9 is also involved in protein metabolism, as a result of which collagen and elastin proteins are formed in fibrocytes (connective tissue cells located in the deep layers of the skin), giving the skin an elastic, fresh look and elasticity.

How much folic acid does a woman need

The daily requirement of women for folic acid:

• 11 - 14 years old - 150 mcg;
• 15 years old and over forty years old - 200 mcg;
• pregnant women - 400 mcg;
• lactating mothers - 300 mcg.

Interaction of folic acid with vitamins and minerals

Folic acid supplementation works well with most vitamins and minerals. But before you start taking vitamins, you should consult your doctor and find out their compatibility. Compatibility of B9 with other vitamins and minerals:

• B12 (cyanocobalamin) - perfectly combined, complementing the action (but with long-term use folic acid deficiency develops cyanocobalamin and as a result - severe pernicious anemia);
• B6 (pyridoxine) - goes well and helps prevent atherosclerosis; prolonged B6 deficiency leads to B9 deficiency;
• B3 (nicotine, PP) - compatible;
• C (ascorbic) - perfectly combined, with ascorbic B9 it is better absorbed;
• E (tocopherol) - a neutral combination;
• A (retinol) - a neutral combination;
• D (calciferol) is a neutral combination.

Folic acid is not compatible with:

• B2 (riboflavin) - with this combination, B9 quickly decomposes;
• zinc - an insoluble precipitate is formed that is not absorbed into the blood.

What foods contain B9

A feature of the folates contained in the products is the impossibility of an overdose. Therefore, during menopause in the diet you need to have the following products:

• garden greens, especially parsley (115 mcg / 100 g), dill and leek feathers, asparagus (260 mcg / 100 g);
• vegetables - cabbage (30 mcg / 100 g), carrots, pumpkin, beets, tomatoes (45 mcg / 100 g);
• legumes - beans, lentils, beans (160 mcg / 100 g);
• cereals - wheat (50 mcg / 100g), rye, buckwheat, corn;
• nuts - most of all in peanuts (240 mcg / 100 g);
• seeds - sunflower, pumpkin, sesame;
• fruits - most of all in citrus fruits (30 mcg / 100 g);
• berries - raspberries, currants, strawberries, watermelons (30 mcg / 100 g);
• animal liver (up to 240 mcg/100 g);
• fish liver;
• eggs.

Vitamin B9 is essential for a woman's body. A woman especially needs this vitamin during pregnancy and menopause. It protects women from the unpleasant symptoms of menopause and from the consequences of metabolic disorders characteristic of this period.

Not all vitamin complexes are exceptionally useful. Many drugs can lead to an overabundance of certain substances. Therefore, before using medications, you need to consult a doctor for advice.

In recent years, the benefits and harms of its use will be presented in the article. You will also learn how to use it. Separately, it is necessary to mention the opinion of doctors about this remedy.

General description of the drug: composition

The drug "Folic acid" contains several components. It contains vitamin B9. Also, the manufacturer can add additional components that usually do not have a significant effect on the human body.

The cost of the drug depends on the production and number of tablets. The dosage also matters, because one tablet can contain 400, 800 or 1000 micrograms of the active substance. The average cost of the drug is in the range of up to one hundred rubles.

benefit and harm

The positive and negative effects of this substance are still being debated. A few decades ago, the decision was made to fortify foods with water-soluble folate.

Folic acid plays an important role in the human body. It is involved in the metabolism of amino acids, the synthesis of nucleic acids. This component is indispensable in the formation of new cells, hematopoiesis. Folic acid contributes to the normalization. Also, the substance is necessary for the immune and cardiac systems.

The benefits and harms of folic acid have been compared by scientists. Professors came to the conclusion that almost never can harm. However, its overabundance still entails unpleasant consequences. Among them are problems such as the formation of kidney stones, tumors in the mammary glands, and so on.

Indications for use

In what cases is it necessary to take tablets with the trade name "Folic acid"? Benefits and harms to the patient must be pre-evaluated by the doctor. Therefore, in order not to experience unpleasant reactions or get an excess of the active ingredient, it is necessary to consult a doctor. The instructions indicate that vitamin B9 is prescribed for its deficiency in the body. It can manifest itself with the following symptoms:

• megaloblastic anemia;
• leukopenia;
• chronic gastroenteritis;
• intestinal tuberculosis;
• restlessness and constant feeling of fear;
• digestive problems;
• or hair loss and so on.

For women

Quite often, doctors prescribe drugs such as folic acid during pregnancy. The benefits and harms for women from its use are also controversial. Vitamin B9 is essential for the normal development of the embryo. Without its use, the likelihood of developing neural tube defects is high. Also, the drug has a positive effect on the formation of the whole organism. It is important to take enough folic acid for the proper development of the fetal brain.

What then is the harm of the substance? The thing is that an excess of vitamin B9 negatively affects diseases of the mammary glands. If a woman has a tumor in this place, then her condition can worsen greatly.

Contraindications to the use of the drug and adverse reactions

What are the benefits and harms for a person from the drug "Folic acid", you already know. If you take the medication as prescribed by a specialist in accordance with the indicated dosages, then you will receive an exclusively positive effect. Vitamin B9 is never prescribed to patients with hypersensitivity to it. It is also worth paying attention to additional components, which may differ from individual manufacturers.

Among the adverse reactions, the instruction indicates an allergy. It can be mild or severe: swelling, rash, itchy skin, and so on. There is evidence that the use of the drug in some people caused a fever. If you have unpleasant manifestations after the start of therapy, then you should definitely consult a doctor.

How to use

Before using the medication, be sure to read the annotation. Read the information about the benefits and harms of Folic Acid tablets. For men and non-pregnant women, the drug is prescribed at a dose of 400 mcg. During the period of bearing a child, the need for folic acid increases. Expectant mothers are advised to consume up to six hundred micrograms of folate.

For children, the medication is prescribed in a lower dosage. It all depends on the age and body weight of the child. The duration of therapy is also determined individually. Tablets should be taken orally with water. If possible, take the medication during meals.

What do the doctors say?

Gynecologists say that the benefit is achieved by taking the drug "Folic Acid", and they cannot be harmed during pregnancy. Doctors explain their statement as follows. During the bearing of a child, a woman's diet changes. Often, expectant mothers are disgusted with food that contains vitamin B9. These are meat, mushrooms, root crops, greens. In this case, there is a lack of folic acid in the body. Everything is aggravated by the fact that the fetus needs this vitamin daily. Therefore, often pregnant women are prescribed the drug without additional examinations.

Elderly people need folic acid to maintain the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. Tablets are prescribed in courses with a break. For children, medication is prescribed much less frequently. There must be good reasons for this. Most children get the right amount of folic acid from food.

Summing up

You have learned a lot about folic acid. The harm or benefit to be gained from therapy depends on the situation and the condition of the patient. If there is an excess of vitamin B9 in the body, then taking it can be dangerous. However, this situation occurs very rarely. Most patients are deficient in folic acid. Therefore, it is advisable to use it in the doses described above.

You can buy folic acid without a prescription at any pharmacy. If at the same time you are taking vitamin complexes, then pay attention to whether the described component is there so as not to provoke its overabundance in the body. Good health and good health to you!

Both for the male and for the female body, vitamins are needed at different periods of life. During the period of weakening of the body, folic acid (vitamin B9) is especially important for women. Wrong lifestyle and frequent diets provoke its deficiency, which should be avoided, since this vitamin is responsible for beauty and women's health.

The properties of the element are mainly manifested in a beneficial effect on the appearance: skin, hair, nails. Vitamin prevents the early appearance of wrinkles, age spots, strengthens nails, accelerates hair growth and improves their quality.

But there are other important properties:

• strengthening the body's defenses, prevention of viral and infectious diseases;
• reducing the likelihood of heart disease;
• strengthening the nervous system, increasing resistance to stressful situations;
• anemia prevention;
• migraine prevention;
• reducing the risk of cancer;
• improving the activity of the gastrointestinal tract;
• ensuring the normal course of pregnancy, reducing the risk of pathologies of the baby's brain;
• reducing the risk of preterm birth while carrying a baby.

Folic acid for women after 40, 50 years

In the life of a woman over the age of 40, vitamin B9 plays a particularly important role. It affects the hormonal system, slowing down the onset of menopause. But even during menopause, vitamin B9 has a positive effect on the condition of a woman.

Benefits of folic acid for the body

If the right amount of vitamin enters the body, then the intensity and frequency of the phenomena characteristic of menopause are significantly reduced: hot flashes, mood swings, pressure surges, etc. The skin receives the necessary nutrition, which slows down the formation of deep wrinkles.

After 50 years, women also need this vitamin. It allows you to actively resist the symptoms of menopause and makes the hormonal changes in the body more invisible. Also at this age, vitamin B9 is needed for normal stomach acidity and proper protein absorption. Vitamin helps to remove accumulated toxins from the body and fights bacteria.

Folic acid for beauty

Folic acid - for what women need is for beauty - it helps to make the skin supple and hair shiny. It is not called the beauty vitamin for nothing. If it is present in a sufficient amount in a woman's body, it maintains the beauty and youth of the skin, hair and nails.

With its regular use, you can get rid of age spots, increase the resistance of the skin to the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation, prevent baldness, strengthen the nail plates and accelerate their growth.

Folic acid is often included in medications and cosmetics that treat alopecia, and not only in women. From which it is clear that the vitamin is needed to activate the hair follicles.

An important property of vitamin B9 is the ability to accelerate cell regeneration. And this helps to avoid the appearance of early wrinkles, premature gray hair and dry skin.

Folic acid masks - recipes

Vitamin B9 is used both internally and externally. Folic acid is introduced into the composition of masks for hair and face.

For hair:

For face:

Face masks will help rejuvenate the skin, make it supple and smooth.

Daily intake

Folic acid (what women need is already clear) is part of many foods, but sometimes it is recommended to take medications.

The norm for an adult is 200–400 mcg (0.2–0.4 mg) per day . For pregnant women, this figure increases to 600–1000 mcg, and for lactating women, the norm is 500 mcg. If there are problems with hematopoiesis or the state of immunity, the dosage is increased. However, only a doctor can increase the dose after conducting the necessary examinations.

What is the risk of deficiency

In the body of a healthy person should be about 5-25 mg of folic acid. Half of this serving is in the liver. But vitamin B9 cannot accumulate in the body and is consumed very quickly. Therefore, it is important to replenish the reserves of this vitamin daily.

Lack of the right amount of vitamin B9 is fraught with:

• lack of iron in the body;
• dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system;
• disorders in the organs of the nervous system, including the brain;
• mental disorders, the appearance of a feeling of fear, phobia;
• early withering of the skin and the appearance of gray hair;
• early onset of menopause;
• developmental delay in adolescents;
• abortion and fetal pathology.

Signs of too much vitamin

This phenomenon is extremely rare, since it is impossible to get so much folic acid from food. Hypervitaminosis of folic acid can occur due to prolonged, uncontrolled intake of drugs containing this element.

Because of this, the following disorders may appear:

• kidney disease;
• digestive disorders;
• excessive nervous excitability;
• insomnia.

Signs of vitamin deficiency in the body

Acute folic acid deficiency progresses very quickly. The body begins to give signals already in the first days of vitamin B9 deficiency. A month later, the level of this vitamin reaches a critical state, and the person begins to constantly get sick, feels powerless and is in a bad mood.

The lack of this element in the body manifests itself as follows:

• a decrease in hemoglobin (in this disease, peripheral organs and tissues are poorly supplied with oxygen, which causes weakness and pallor of the skin);
• lack of appetite (with an insufficient amount of folic acid, an insufficient amount of hydrochloric acid is produced in the stomach);
• frequent food intoxications;
• various skin rashes (acne, age spots, acne, vitiligo);
• decreased performance, fatigue;
• sudden weight loss;
• disorder of memory and attention;
• irritability, apathy, neuroses, depression.

Instructions for use

To understand what dosage a particular person needs, many factors must be taken into account.

During pregnancy planning

During this period, folic acid intake is very important. This element will prepare the woman's body for conception. In this situation, the vitamin found in food will not be enough, so the doctor prescribes folic acid tablets. One tablet contains 1000 micrograms (1 mg) of vitamin B9. Drink 1 tablet a day.

During childbearing

Folic acid (for which women need during pregnancy, the doctor will tell) will help to avoid many problems in the development of the baby and with the health of the pregnant woman herself.

If the pregnancy proceeds normally, 1 tab. is prescribed for prevention. per day, containing 1 mg of vitamin B9.

But it happens that a pregnant woman has a deficiency of this element in her body, then doctors prescribe stronger drugs that contain a high concentration of folic acid: for example, Folacin, one tablet of which contains 5000 mcg (5 mg) of the vitamin. This dose is already considered therapeutic.

During breastfeeding

Taking vitamin B9 during lactation will eliminate the lack of this element not only in the mother, but also in the baby. After all, everything that the mother consumes gets into his body with milk. The prophylactic dose is also 1 tablet, which contains 1 mg of the active substance.

With anemia

Anemia is a low concentration of hemoglobin and red blood cells in the blood. The essence of the treatment of this condition is the additional intake of substances that are not enough in the body. And this is iron, vitamin B12 and B9, aka folic acid.

For the treatment of anemia, both adults and children are prescribed an initial dose in the form of 1 tablet containing 1 mg of folic acid. For maintenance treatment, take 0.5 part of the tablet, which is 0.5 mg for adults, children under 4 years old are prescribed 0.3 mg.

With folic acid avitaminosis

With this diagnosis, adults are prescribed 5 mg of the vitamin per day. Children are prescribed a dosage depending on age and weight. The treatment period should be at least 25-30 days.

During the diet

An additional intake of vitamin B9 helps to activate the metabolic processes in the body and break down accumulated fats and acids. It is advisable to take this element along with vitamin C and vitamin B12. The dosage can be prescribed only by the attending physician after passing the necessary tests.

Can you not take folic acid during pregnancy?

Folic acid (what women need during pregnancy has already been described) is important for the body of both the expectant mother and the baby, because if it is deficient, the placenta does not form correctly in a woman or her detachment may occur.

There is a risk of developing pathologies in the fetus, in some of them, termination of pregnancy is strictly indicated, since in 100% of cases the fetus dies either in utero or in the first hours of life. For example, this happens with one of the disorders of the neural tube of the fetus, which is called anencephaly.

Lack of vitamin B9 in some cases leads to the following threats:

• problems with the nervous system of the newborn, namely dropsy in the brain, cerebral hernia, spinal column splitting;
• risk of spontaneous abortion or premature birth;
• intrauterine delay in the development of the baby;
• defects of the heart muscle and blood vessels;
• mental retardation;
• stillbirth;
• ventricular septal defects;
• cleft palate and upper lip;
• abnormal intrauterine development of the fetus.

When refusing to take folic acid during pregnancy, it is important to understand all the risks for mother and baby.

What foods contain folic acid

The ideal would be to get vitamin B9 from the food you eat.

Here is a list of foods that contain the highest amount of this vitamin:

If a person consumes a lot of the above products, this does not always mean that he receives enough vitamin B9, because. element is very fragile. During heat treatment, 90% of the vitamin is destroyed.

Products lose it even if they lie in the sun for a long time. The right amount of this element is found only in fresh products. If they have lain in the refrigerator for more than three days, this element is also destroyed.

Products containing folic acid

Pharmaceutical preparations will provide the body with the right amount of vitamin and prevent beriberi.

Foliber

The component of the remedy is not only vitamin B9, but also vitamin B12. It is prescribed for the preventive treatment of atherosclerosis, heart disease and during pregnancy planning.

Foliber is contraindicated in people with intolerance to the components that make up the tablets. It is necessary to take it with caution to women who have problems with the absorption of lactose and glucose. Usually they take 1 tab. per day, 1 hour before eating. The course lasts up to 30 days. The price ranges from 115 to 260 rubles.

Maltofer

The drug consists of iron polymaltose hydroxide (356 mcg) and vitamin B9 (0.35 mcg). It is more often prescribed for anemia (iron deficiency), insufficient amount of iron and vitamin B9 in the body, childbearing and during breastfeeding.

It is contraindicated if there is an excess of iron in the body, its absorption is impaired, or there are allergic reactions to the components of the drug. With the above anemia, 1-3 tablets are prescribed. per day. The treatment time is 3-4 months. During the bearing of the baby, 1 tab. 2 times a day until the hemoglobin level rises. The price ranges from 506 to 610 rubles.

Doppelherz active folic acid

As part of the drug: vitamin B9 (600 mcg), vitamin C (300 mcg), B6 ​​(6 mg), B12 (5 mcg), E (3 mcg). This composition promotes cell renewal. These tablets are prescribed for the prevention of diseases of the heart and blood vessels. They are useful to take during childbearing and lactation, to cure heart disease and gynecological diseases.

Prescribe 1 tab. per day while eating. The treatment time is 30-35 days. The price ranges from 1844 to 530 rubles.

Folic acid with vitamins B6 and B12 from Evalar

Such tablets consist of vitamin B9 (600 mcg), vitamin B12 (5 mcg) and vitamin B6 (6 mcg). They are considered a dietary supplement.

Taking this drug reduces the level of hemocysteine. Therefore, it is prescribed to prevent the occurrence of thrombosis and atherosclerosis. It is also recommended for women who are carrying a child, it helps to prevent the development of heart muscle diseases and complications after such.

Contraindication is intolerance to the components of the drug. Prescribe 1 tablet during meals, 1 time per day. The treatment time is 2 months. The price ranges from 85 to 185 rubles.

Interaction of folic acid with vitamins and minerals

Before starting a course of folic acid treatment, you need to learn how it interacts with other vitamins and minerals.

For example, folic acid has good compatibility with vitamin B12. Together they are involved in the synthesis of amino acids. But at the same time, long-term use of vitamin B9 sometimes leads to an acute shortage of vitamin B12. A prolonged lack of vitamin B6 leads to a lack of folic acid. Interacting with each other, they improve blood circulation, prevent the appearance of cholesterol plaques.

Folic acid also works well with vitamin C. Doctors recommend taking them together. Also, vitamin B9 can be combined with vitamins E and D. But vitamin B2 destroys folic acid, preventing it from being absorbed by the body. Also, vitamin B9 goes well with minerals: iron and iodine. But zinc interferes with the absorption of this vitamin.

Side effects

Side effects are sometimes manifested by an allergic reaction, namely a rash, anaphylactic reactions, bronchospasm. From the gastrointestinal tract, anorexia, nausea, bitterness in the mouth, diarrhea or bloating can be observed.

Possible sleep disturbance, irritability, aggression and hypovitaminosis of vitamin B12.

Contraindications

The main contraindications are:

• excessive sensitivity to the components of a particular drug;
• vitamin B12 deficiency anemia;
• lactose intolerance;
• lactose deficiency;
• children's age up to 3 years.

Taking any medication, even vitamin B9, which is folic acid, should be started only after consulting a doctor. Despite the fact that the female body needs it for beauty and health, it is important to determine the dosage in which to take the drug so that hypervitaminosis does not occur.

Article formatting: Vladimir the Great

Video about folic acid (Vitamin B9)

Elena Malysheva will tell you why you need folic acid for pregnant women:

Why does a person need folic acid:

Folic acid (vitamin B9) is extremely important for a woman's body and is rightfully considered a female vitamin. B9 plays a significant role in the formation of organs, tissues, restoration of immunity, regulation of the heart, and strengthening of blood vessels. The lack of an element provokes the development of stroke, heart attack, atherosclerosis, nervous system disorder, early menopause. Therefore, folic acid, especially in combination with vitamins B6 and B12, is of particular value for the female body, since all three vitamins are involved in the process of creating the structure of DNA, hemoglobin bodies, and are responsible for the functioning of the brain. In this article, we will analyze in more detail why women need folic acid, what are its benefits, are there any contraindications and how to use it correctly.

Benefits of folic acid for women

Vitamin B9 is necessary to maintain the following processes in the female body:

• A healthy nervous system and the ability to withstand stress and external pathogens.
• Protective immune functions to fight inflammation, viruses and infections.
• Carrying a child during pregnancy.
• Improving blood circulation and reducing the risk of diseases of the cardiovascular system and the development of thrombosis.
• Prevention of the development of anemia.
• Strengthening hair and reducing the rate of baldness.
• Preservation of the skin from pigmentation, slowing down the formation of wrinkles.
• Memory improvements.
• Ensuring the full functioning of the gastrointestinal tract (gastrointestinal tract).

With the help of folic acid, red blood cells are produced and oxygen is transported in sufficient quantities throughout the body, which improves mood, performance, eradicates fatigue, irritability, and dizziness. B9 accelerates the growth of hair, nails, skin renewal, restores its ability to withstand the negative effects of sunlight, which provoke early aging.

Nutritionists advise using vitamin B9 for weight loss, as the substance burns fat by acting on lipids and causing them to break down into light alcohols and fatty acids, which are excreted through the excretory system from body tissues.

Symptoms and causes of folic acid deficiency

The first signs of vitamin deficiency are lack of mood, appetite, nervousness and weakness, apathy and loss of interest in business. Breastfeeding mothers may experience increased postpartum depression. Hypovitaminosis leads to a deficiency of adrenaline, which causes impotence and reduced performance. Due to nervous disorders, aggression, irritability arise, fears, phobias, and uncertainty appear.

Deficiency also provokes rapid fatigue, memory impairment, decreased attention, weight loss. According to doctors, the body does not retain B9 in sufficient quantities due to nutrition, which did not include such foods as various varieties of cabbage, legumes, citrus fruits, cherries, melons, soybeans, figs, gooseberries. If you do not eat the listed foods, you may develop a deficiency of vitamin B9.

One of the reasons for the deficiency is considered to be chronic alcoholism in women and intestinal disorders that disrupt the absorption of useful elements. Poor absorption of folic acid occurs due to long-term treatment with antibiotics and drug courses that disrupt absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

With a deficiency of B9, the following consequences are possible:

• Megaloblastic anemia (anemia) - a decrease in red blood cells and a violation of their normal functioning. The disease causes indigestion, constant fatigue, hair loss and the appearance of painful sores in the mouth.
• Problems during pregnancy - early miscarriage, premature birth and placental abruption.
• Mood swings leading to depression.
• Infertility or pathology of the fetus - mental retardation, hydrocephalus, disorders of the circulatory system, cleft lip.
• Cognitive impairment - insomnia, nervousness, aggressiveness, anxiety for no reason.

Symptoms of folic acid deficiency appear 10-30 days after the decrease in the level of vitamin in the blood.

Side effects of folic acid overdose

Despite the obvious benefits of folic acid for a woman, excessive oversaturation of the body with this vitamin can cause side effects:

• fever
• erythema,
• bronchospasm,
• elevated temperature,
• Eruptions on the skin.

It is not recommended to take B9 in the presence of an allergy to the drug and during the presence of a condition such as fructosemia, lack of sucrase, isomaltase, anemia due to B12 deficiency, malabsorption of galactose and glucose.

What is useful folic acid for women after 40 and 50 years

After 40 years, women undergo hormonal age-related changes due to the attenuation of reproductive activity and changes in the hormonal level in the body. B9 smoothes the symptoms of menopause, maintains youthfulness and elasticity of the skin, prevents hair loss, and normalizes the work of the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

Folic acid is also useful for women who have reached the age of 50. It reduces the negative manifestation of menopause on the physical and mental background. The vitamin is involved in the production of red blood cells, which provide oxygen to all body tissues. The element has a positive effect on the digestive processes, maintains normal acidity, normalizes the absorption of proteins and fats, and also promotes the digestion of food.

folic acid during pregnancy

The element is assigned to expectant mothers to strengthen body functions before a planned pregnancy. A few months before the upcoming pregnancy, it is necessary to increase the level of B9 in the blood in order to prepare for the additional stress on the body when carrying a child.

In addition to strengthening immunity, the vitamin takes part in the formation of the neural tube, from which the development of the spinal cord and fetal brain will continue. The neural tube is formed from the first days after conception, so an acid deficiency during this period can develop defects in its formation, which subsequently provokes birth defects in the child. Also, a lack of vitamin B9 can lead to premature birth, miscarriage, or placental abruption.

The benefits of folic acid for lactating and pregnant women are as follows:

• Reduces the risk of birth defects.
• Reduces the risk of early miscarriage.
• Reduces the likelihood of miscarriage and intrauterine death.
• Improves the quality of the blood.
• Creation of a nucleic acid that transmits hereditary characteristics to the fetus is provided.
• Gestosis is prevented.
• The normal functioning of the intestines of the child is ensured.
• Reduces postpartum depression.

Once in the body of a woman, folic acid is converted into tetrahydrofolic acid, which stimulates hematopoiesis, affects the synthesis of red blood cells, amino acids and many metabolic processes. Once inside, B9 is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and reaches its maximum concentration in the blood after 40-50 minutes. At a high dosage, it is excreted unchanged by the kidneys after 5 hours.

Attention! It is necessary to take folic acid after consulting a doctor, since only a doctor can determine the level of folate in the body and adjust the daily dose.

How to take folic acid correctly

A large amount of the vitamin is found in plant foods and fresh vegetables. Animal products: eggs, fish, beef, chicken, cheese are also a source of folic acid. But not all products of the daily diet provide the body's daily need for the vitamin, which is especially necessary for expectant mothers who should definitely take B9 additionally in tablets or capsules.

1. The daily dose of the drug for the expectant mother is 0.4-0.8 mg.
2. The daily dose during menopause is 0.3 mg.
3. For the prevention and maintenance of the body, you should try to take 0.2 mg of vitamin per day daily.

The drug is taken from one to three times a day, one capsule after meals.

Prevention of vitamin B9 deficiency

To prevent hypovitaminosis, it is required to introduce foods containing folic acid into the diet:

• tomatoes,
• pumpkin,
• Dill,
• dried apricots,
• Bran,
• Walnuts,
• turnip,
• melon,
• lamb, beef, pork,
• bird,
• Fish (trout and perch),
• Dairy products.

In meat products, B9 is more stable; in vegetable products, it decomposes faster under the influence of sunlight and due to heat treatment.

Folic acid preparations

Vitamin complexes in addition to B9 contain substances that help its absorption. Vitamin C is required for fruitful absorption of B9.

Dietary supplements - increase the level of folic acid and are used as prophylactic agents for hypovitaminosis. Available in the form of chewable lozenges, powders for cocktails, effervescent tablets for dilution.

Currently, the pharmaceutical industry produces many preparations containing vitamin B9:

• Folacin, Apo-Folic - prescribed for a large deficiency of the element in the body.
• Folio - B9 level does not restore, but is used as a preventive measure for beriberi.
• Elevit Pronatal, Materna, Vitrum Prenatal - drugs for pregnant women that maintain the required level of B9.
• Foliber is a group of multivitamins that also contains vitamin B12.
• Doppelhertz - contains vitamins E, C, B12, B6.
• Maltofer - is prescribed for iron deficiency anemia.

Attention! Folic acid preparations are poorly absorbed if they were treated with antibiotics before taking them, since antimicrobial agents disrupt the intestinal microflora. For better absorption of B9 by the intestines, it is recommended first of all to restore its microflora.