Vitamin B9 - Benefits, Deficiency Symptoms And Food Sources

Alternative name - Folic acid, Folate, Folacin and Pteroylglutamic acid

The common name of folic acid is vitamin B9. Mitchell, Snell and Williams named it folic acid because of its isolation from spinach leaf. In 1945 its chemical structure was formed which is known as vitamin M. Folic acid is a chemical group formed of different compounds. Petroglutamic acid (PGA) is the simplest form which contains a pterin derivative residue connected to Para amino-benzoic acid and glutamic acid. It is converted into tetra hydro derivative in the body which after taking up a formyl (-cho) group forms folinic acid and also known as citrovorum factor. Folic acid is a compound yellow in color slightly soluble in water, dilutes alcohol and destroyed by light. In addition, it can be precipitated as barium and lead salt. 

Benefits of folic acid 

It helps in the transfer of formyl and hydroxymethyl groups in different biological systems (e.g. Biosynthesis of purine, synthesis of methyl group of methionin, etc.). It is very much needed for the synthesis of deoxyribonucleic acids in the nuclei of the cells. Folinic acid takes part in the formation and maturation of the red cells. If taken with vitamin B12 it helps in the synthesis of nucleic acid. Disturbances in the synthesis of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and metabolism of the nucleated red cells resulting in megaloblastic and macrocytic anemia are the symptoms of its deficiency in body. It is also used in the treatment of the megaloblastic anemia. Vitamin B9 helps to eliminate homocysteine, a blood toxin known to affect heart muscle and influences cholesterol to deposit in heart muscle. It prevents stroke and heart attack. Weakness in bones leading to fractures is the result of increased homocysteine levels in the body. Vitamin B9 helps in digestion, and the nervous system, and helps in improving mental as well as emotional health. The folic acid is very effective in treating anxiety and depression.

Deficiency symptoms of folic acid 

A poor diet can be a reason for folate deficiency in the body. Pregnant and lactating mothers need it more as that time nutrition requirement in body increases. Its lack can cause megaloblastic anemia especially during pregnancy. Sometimes it results in glossitis, chelosis and gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, distension and flatulence. Severe deficiency can even cause infertility or even sterility. It has been also proved that early administration of folic acid antagonists in early pregnancy may produce abortions or congenital malformations. A deficiency of vitamin B9 on an unborn baby may increase the risk of the baby being born with spinal bifida and other serious defects of the nervous system. Fatigue, acne, a sore tongue, cracking at the corners of mouth is its common symptoms. Anemia and later in osteoporosis, as well as cancer of the bowel and cervix, leucopenia and agranulocytosis are diseases which occur if it lacks in body for long term.  

Daily requirement 

On an average a person needs around 5-10mg of folate per day. The good sources of vitamin B9 are liver, kidney, green–leafy vegetables, cauliflower, etc. During growth in young children and pregnancy are the times when it is needed the most.