What vitamins are better to use in old age. Why do women need folic acid: the main benefits of the component

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 - what women need for it 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 the 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 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, as 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.

In old age, all processes in the body slow down. Not as good as in youth, the stomach and intestines work. As a result, the body develops a lack of vitamins, calcium, magnesium and other substances. This leads to poor health. My heart hurts, my blood pressure rises. For older women, a lack of vitamins after 60 years of age is a risk of malignant diseases. It is important to help the body protect itself from rapid aging. You need to take vitamins to make up for their deficiency.

Content:

What age-related changes occur in the body in older women

Aging of the body leads to a slowdown in all processes occurring in it. After 60 years, chronic diseases become aggravated, to which they did not pay enough attention in their youth. Intestinal function deteriorates. The reason for this, first of all, is a decrease in muscle tone. The appearance of constipation is also facilitated by the fact that a woman leads an inactive lifestyle, because of ailments, she walks a little. In addition, if she has high blood pressure, then you need to drink less fluid, and this interferes with the normal cleansing of the body from toxins. Nutrient deficiencies explain the following health problems:

1. Metabolic disorders due to insufficient production of enzymes in the liver. The reason is a decrease in the production of hormones involved in their formation, as well as a lack of vitamins, catalysts for biochemical reactions in the body. As a result, weight is added.
2. Violation of fat metabolism leads to the formation of cholesterol plaques in the vessels. In addition, their walls become thinner. The blood supply to all organs depends on the state of the vessels. There are heart diseases, such as ischemia, cardiac arrhythmias. This is due to the lack of magnesium and potassium. At this age, women often suffer from hypertension.
3. Inadequate blood supply to the brain leads to visual impairment, sclerosis, and loss of mental abilities.
4. Lack of nutrition affects the functioning of the nervous system. This is manifested in the fact that women have disturbed night sleep, headaches, dizziness often appear. The character changes: the woman becomes grouchy, irritable.
5. Lack of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus worsens the condition of the skeletal system. The bones become brittle, pain in the joints disturbs, the shape of the spine changes. The skin is dry, more and more wrinkles appear, hair turns gray and weakens.

All these changes are natural for women over 60 years old. Vitamins, skillfully selected on the advice of a doctor, will help to fill the resulting deficiency, significantly reduce unpleasant manifestations, maintain health, vigor and attractiveness.

If you rely only on fortified food, then it is much more difficult to achieve the desired effect, because, firstly, it is poorly absorbed, and secondly, you need to eat too much to satisfy the needs of the body. This is fraught with weight gain, which is then difficult to get rid of. Synthetic preparations, in addition to vitamins, also contain strictly calculated doses of essential minerals.

Video: How to eat right in old age

Vitamins and minerals needed by older women

Vitamin E, A, C, group B plays the most important role in the body of older women, vitamin D is very important. Do not forget about the minerals that must enter the body in the required amount.

vitamins

Vitamin A (retinol). Needed to improve vision and skin elasticity.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine). The need after 60 years is increased, since it is involved in the production of thyroid hormones, it is necessary to speed up metabolism, improve heart function.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) affects vision, the functioning of the nervous system. Prevents the occurrence of skin diseases.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) prevents the development of arthritis, the appearance of pain in the joints.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) participates in the synthesis of enzymes that ensure the processing of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, improves their absorption. Signs of its deficiency are numbness of the hands, muscle cramps, as well as sciatica, skin and eye diseases.

Vitamin B9 (folic acid) enhances the action of vitamins B6 and B12, preventing the occurrence of vascular atherosclerosis, which causes a violation of the blood supply to all organs. The lack of this vitamin for women after 60 years of age is fraught with the occurrence of diseases of the lungs and heart, impaired brain activity, kidney function, and stomach. With a lack of folic acid, shortness of breath, cardiopulmonary insufficiency, and abdominal pain may increase. Violation of the structure of the vascular walls leads to the formation of an aneurysm (vasodilation), leading to rupture, hemorrhage.

Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) participates in the process of hematopoiesis. With a lack of vitamin occurs anemia, nervous disorders. Perhaps the appearance of a stomach or duodenal ulcer, a weakening of the immune system.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid). The need for older women is greater than in youth, as this substance protects against vascular thrombosis, reducing blood clotting. In addition, it reduces the risk of cancer. Improves thermoregulation, metabolism, has an antibacterial effect.

Vitamin D (calciferol). Promotes better absorption of calcium and magnesium, which provide strong bones and protect teeth from decay. In older women, osteoporosis often occurs, the risk of bone fractures is increased, so the need for this vitamin increases. The deterioration of the bone tissue leads to a violation of the sound conductivity of the bones, which is the cause of hearing loss. After 60 years, the absorption of the vitamin from food is half that of young people. Its deficiency is aggravated if a woman does not eat meat, adheres to a vegetarian diet.

Vitamin E (tocopherol). Protects cells from premature destruction, slows down the aging of the body. Helps strengthen muscle tissue, reduces the risk of blood clots in the vessels.

Video: What vitamins do the elderly need

Minerals

Magnesium. It is called an anti-stress element. It is part of the bones. Participates in the elimination of toxins, prevents the formation of kidney stones, inhibits the growth of malignant tumors.

Calcium is part of the dental, bone tissue, as well as blood. Calcium maintains muscle tone, including the heart, strengthens the walls of blood vessels, and is involved in the production of insulin. This element is necessary to prevent inflammatory processes and allergies, to maintain the functioning of the nervous system.

Iron- an element without which hematopoiesis is impossible, the synthesis of hemoglobin. Iron deficiency anemia is fraught with disruption of the thyroid gland, the digestive system. With a lack of iron, the skin becomes flabby, a pale face is observed, and the shape of the nails is distorted. The woman experiences weakness, headaches, dizziness, tinnitus.

Zinc- Participates in the production of insulin, regulation of blood sugar levels. It is necessary to maintain immunity, protect the body from viruses, and also to suppress the development of cancer cells.

Potassium. Lack of it in the body increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, the occurrence of arrhythmias. With a potassium deficiency, a woman experiences constant fatigue. There are insomnia, depressed mood, headache.

Phosphorus it is necessary to maintain mental abilities, to strengthen muscles, maintain healthy teeth, hair, nails, and ensure normal metabolism.

Selenium. The need for it is small, but without it the normal functioning of the thyroid gland is impossible. It has an anticarcinogenic effect.

Iodine- the main component that ensures the production of thyroid hormones.

Addition: An increase in the deficiency of useful elements in the body is facilitated by the use of laxatives. If a woman is forced to take them, then she especially needs to use vitamin complexes.

Video: Symptoms of beriberi in the elderly

Daily requirement for vitamins and minerals

Vitamin and mineral complexes

For women 60 years of age and older, it is recommended to use such vitamin complexes as Vitrum Centuri, Centrum Silver, Alphabet 50+, Undevit. The doses of vitamins and minerals included in them take into account the needs of the body of the elderly, help improve brain activity, fight physical weakness.

Folic acid, folacin, or vitamin B9 is a compound that is produced by the human body and is also found in some foods. For the first time, this enzyme was unsubscribed at the beginning of the 20th century, and was originally called the Wils factor by the name of the scientist. Answers to the questions: what is the vitamin for and how to take folic acid, in the proposed material.

Synthesis of folacins in small doses is carried out by the large intestine. When interacting with cells, the enzyme is transformed into a biologically active compound, which is necessary for the production of amino acids.

In addition, this element is involved in such processes:

• cell division;
• digestion and processing of proteins;
• normalization of the level of leukocytes and glucose;
• maintaining hemoglobin balance;
• production of red blood cells;
• acid synthesis;
• restoration of the functions of the nervous system;
• support for cardiac activity and vascular function;
• improvement of digestion;
• stimulation of immunity;
• absorption of vitamins and microelements;
• the formation of DNA and RNA responsible for hereditary traits.

Vitamin B9 is prescribed for adults and children with iron deficiency anemia and leukemia, gastrointestinal disorders, and a number of other disorders. In addition, taking folacin is considered a mandatory measure in the following situations:

• conception planning;
• early stages of pregnancy;
• endocrine disorders;
• epilepsy;
• signs of vitamin B deficiency

Since this substance is poorly absorbed by human cells and is produced by the body in small volumes, people suffering from its lack should not only supplement their diet with foods containing vitamin B9, but also drink medicines based on it in tablets or other dosage forms.

daily requirement

The daily need for folacin differs in different categories of people. It depends not only on age, but also on the individual characteristics of the patient.

The volume of consumption for individual groups is as follows:

• children - from 1.5 to 3 mg;
• adults - 4 mg;
• pregnant women - 6 mg;
• nursing mothers - 5 mg.

On a note. Individuals involved in sports and practicing serious physical activity need more vitamin B9. In these cases, the dose is calculated individually.

Signs of deficiency and excess of vitamin B9

With a lack of folic acid, a number of important cellular processes are disrupted.

This condition manifests itself in the following ways:

• disorders in the digestive tract;
• anemia
• headaches;
• emotional disorders;
• decrease in working capacity;
• insomnia;
• weakening of attention;
• loss of strength;
• sleep disorders;
• weight loss;
• dermatological problems.

Women with a deficiency of vitamin B9 notice deterioration in the condition of the skin, nail plates and hair, often premature gray hair appears. And if there is a lack of folic acid during pregnancy, this negatively affects the well-being of the expectant mother and is expressed by the following symptoms:

• impotence and dizziness;
• excruciating nausea and vomiting;
• stool disorders.

Folic acid will help the children's body develop normally, and if this enzyme is not enough, a number of defects and disorders occur. When a child has appetite disorders, weakness and apathy, often the reason is a lack of vitamin B9.

Did you know? Folate is consumed by cells many times more when a person abuses alcohol, smokes, does not keep a sleep schedule, and is often under stress. In addition, certain medications can affect the levels of this enzyme in the body.

For many patients, the question arises whether the likelihood of an overdose of vitamin B9 is high. The uniqueness of this substance lies in the fact that its excess is excreted from the body without harming it. However, the abuse of medicines containing folic acid threatens to cause such problems:

• bitterness and metallic aftertaste in the mouth;
• indigestion and pain in the abdomen;
• nausea and vomiting;
• increased gas formation;
• malfunctions of the kidneys;
• irritability and insomnia;
• disorders in the work of the heart;
• increase in seizures in patients with epilepsy.

If you experience these symptoms as a result of using products containing vitamin B9, you can do the following at home:

1. Give the victim plenty of boiled water to drink.
2. Provoke vomiting by pressure on the root of the tongue.
3. After gastric lavage, give the patient activated charcoal or another sorbent.

When urgent measures are taken, you need to call the ambulance brigade.

What products contain

You can replenish cells with folic acid not only by taking complexes containing it, but also by enriching the diet with certain varieties of greens and vegetable crops, namely:

• cabbage of any kind;
• spinach;
• parsley and nettle;
• mint leaves;
• salads;
• beets;
• carrots;
• tomatoes.

The following fruits contain folacin in a considerable amount:

• citruses;
• bananas;
• apricots of all varieties.

In animal products, folate is somewhat less, but still enough for the cells to receive them in the right amount.

The sources of this element include:

• liver;
• egg yolks;
• meat and poultry;
• fish and seafood;
• dairy products.

Other foods that help eliminate the lack of folate in the body include:

• legumes;
• cereals;
• nuts;
• coarse flour;
• yeast.

If you properly organize the diet and do not abuse harmful foods, alcohol and cigarettes, the problem of lack of folacin in the body will not arise.

Medicines that contain folacin

Since vitamin B9 in its natural form, obtained by the body from food, is poorly absorbed by cells, it often becomes necessary to use preparations containing this substance.

They are presented in the following forms:

• powders;
• tablets;
• dragee;
• drops;
• solutions for injections.

The most popular medicines designed to replenish cells with folates are the following:

• Apo-folic;
• Folacin;
• Folio.

When planning pregnancy and in its first months, it is recommended to take the following remedies:

• Pregnavit for pregnant women;
• Multi-tabs Perinatal;
• Elevit.

On a note. At the stage of preparation for conception, folic acid is indicated for both partners.

How to take vitamin B9 supplements when planning a pregnancy

Folacin will help maintain the balance of hemoglobin in the blood, which reduces the chance of miscarriage. And also this enzyme is responsible for the formation of the fetus, and is especially needed during the laying of organs. In addition, folate is required for DNA synthesis, and therefore, a few months before conception, vitamin B9 is shown not only to the expectant mother, but also to her husband.

At the planning stage, women are prescribed 1-2.5 mg of the substance daily, men - from 2-4 mg. At the same time, specialists rarely follow the instructions for use thoroughly, and prescribe individual regimens and dosages in each case.

It is acceptable to increase the amount of vitamin B9 before conception when the patient:

• is depressed or chronically stressed;
• is actively involved in sports;
• subject to excessive physical exertion;
• experiencing problems with the work of the gastrointestinal tract.

Interaction with other substances

There are a number of medications whose active ingredients can affect the balance of folic acid and accelerate its excretion.

These include medicines of the following groups:

• bacteriostatic antibiotics;
• antiprotozoal agents;
• antacids;
• corticosteroids;
• oral contraceptives;
• anticonvulsants.

And also the deterioration of the absorption of vitamin B9 is affected by drugs containing such compounds:

• sulfonamides;
• polymyxins;
• chloramphenicols;
• tetracyclines;
• phenytoins;
• ethanol.

If the patient needs to take medicines of these groups or medicinal formulations containing the listed components, they are prescribed calcium folinate instead of folic acid.

Contraindications and side effects

Taking medicinal formulations based on folacins will cause significant damage to health under such conditions:

• the presence of neoplasms of a benign or malignant nature;
• violation of the absorption of vitamins of group B;
• low levels of cobalamin (vitamin B12);
• disorders of metabolic processes;
• excess iron-containing components;
• intolerance to the components of the remedy.

As a rule, folic acid-based medicines do not cause side effects, since this substance is not alien to the human body. But the composition of medicines often includes synthetically produced vitamin B9, which can lead to allergic reactions or such an unpleasant manifestation:

• flatulence;
• pains and cuts in the gastric region;
• nausea and vomiting;
• stool disorders;
• respiratory failure (very rare).

The same symptoms are accompanied by an overdose of drugs containing folates. If the condition worsens as a result of the use of a vitamin B9 product, stop taking and seek medical attention. It may be necessary to adjust the regimen or dosage.

Like any micronutrient, folic acid is beneficial if there is no shortage or excess of it. Otherwise, it threatens with malfunctions in the body, which can lead to serious violations.

On the pharmacy shelves you can see a lot of different complexes for women. They, along with biologically active substances and minerals, contain vitamin B9. Why do women need it, where it is contained and how to take it, this article will tell.

Unique bioactivator

Refers folic acid to group B.

The role of this substance is unique:

• maintains the health of the nervous system even in conditions of overload of the central nervous system, chronic stress;
• stimulates the work of the gastrointestinal tract;
• improves the performance of the heart, lungs;
• improves the quality of genetic material, activates reproductive functions.

In addition, the positive effect of preparations with folic acid on the activity of almost all body systems has been experimentally proven, and its effectiveness has been officially confirmed by many experts. B9 reduces the risk of developing various pathologies from the period of prenatal development to old age.

The human body practically does not produce this substance. If there is not enough of it with food, the doctor may prescribe pills to make up for the deficiency. Instructions for use must be carefully followed, since hypervitaminosis (an overdose of vitamins) can be dangerous.

It is rich in dark green vegetables, red meat, eggs. You should carefully monitor the diet and eat as many raw vegetables and fruits as possible, since B9 can simply be destroyed during heat treatment.

B9 and youth

In addition to the positive effect on various systems of the human body, it is important to know how folic acid is useful for women. B9 significantly reduces the risk of developing varicose veins, thrombosis, maintains the optimal state of the vessels of the circulatory system, and strengthens the weakened natural defenses of the body.

This substance is actively involved in the process of cell regeneration, so it is sometimes called the "vitamin of youth." Taking a sufficient amount of vitamin B9 can slow down the manifestation of age-related changes and maintain a flowering appearance.

The condition of the skin and nails improves markedly if a woman regularly takes iron supplements in combination with B9. When choosing a complex with microelements, you should carefully study its composition and pay attention to which age group it is intended for.

Vitamin plays a huge role in maintaining the reproductive function of the female body. Especially important. Its use in the early stages significantly reduces the risk of miscarriage. Despite the well-known benefits of B9 for expectant mothers, only the attending physician should prescribe all drugs.

B9 in the diet of mature women

Age-related changes associated with hormonal changes in the female body can cause some discomfort. Therefore, folic acid for women after 40 should become an indispensable element in the daily diet.

Receiving it allows you to solve the following problems:

• hot flashes, sweating;
• irritability, tearfulness, emotional instability;
• external manifestations associated with changes in hormonal levels - reduced skin tone, deterioration of complexion;
• swelling of the legs;
• shortness of breath, disorders of the cardiovascular system;
• memory impairment, distraction.

Folic acid is shown in menopause, as it slows down the process of menopause and makes it more gentle, allowing all body systems to gently adapt to the changing hormonal background.

The positive effect of the vitamin on the functioning of the cardiovascular system reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and stimulates blood circulation. The improvement of such mental processes as attention and memory is achieved due to the stimulating effect of folic acid on brain activity by increasing the intensity of oxygen transport.

Regular intake of vitamin B9 courses during menopause allows you to maintain efficiency, maintain a good mood, and improve the overall well-being of a woman.

Reception features

For young women, a daily dose of 40-50 mcg is sufficient. This amount of vitamin can be obtained with a balanced diet and the inclusion of foods rich in folic acid in the daily menu.

During pregnancy, the need for this valuable substance increases many times and can reach 400 mcg per day. In such cases, it is necessary that the specialist prescribe the dosage and regimen, as well as determine its duration. You can not take B9 drugs continuously, this can lead to negative consequences.

At any age, despite such impressive possibilities of vitamin B9, its intake should be prescribed and monitored by a doctor. This is especially important when other medications are required. It must be remembered that folacin is not combined with certain substances. This should be informed, which is attached to all pharmaceutical preparations without fail.

Contraindications for admission

Benefits and harms can go hand in hand, so you need to be aware of cases where taking B9 is contraindicated for a person.

Vitaminization with the use of this substance is prohibited:

• in the presence of individual intolerance to vitamin B9;
• a course of therapy with the use of antibiotics, antispasmodics, analgesics;
• when using tobacco, alcohol-containing drinks.

You should not take risks if the instructions for using the drug are lost and it is not known how it interacts with folic acid. If you need to regularly take a medication that is incompatible with vitamin B9, your doctor will help you choose alternative bioactivators that will help you get the same effect.

Among all the methods of vitamin therapy, natural sources of nutrients should be preferred. Folic acid is no exception, which requires a balanced diet that will allow women to get enough vitamin from fresh vegetables and fruits.

If necessary, you can drink vitamin B9 in the form of tablets or use complex preparations with its content, taking into account the dosage. When choosing a drug containing folic acid, you should not rely on advertising reviews or the recommendation of a pharmacist from a pharmacy. The appointment should be made only by the attending physician, who is aware of all the existing health problems in his patient.

The benefits of folic acid for women at any age are undeniable. A reasonable, varied diet, vitaminization is an important condition for youth, beauty and health, regardless of age. At the same time, we must not forget that this is a synthetic vitamin B9 - a medical preparation. Therefore, before you start taking it, the instructions for use should be carefully studied.