Vitamin B9 or folic acid also known as flacon and folate is one of the important vitamins in vitamin B family. Folic acid is a yellow, crystalline substance and sparingly soluble in water and stable in acid solution. It helps to transportation of oxygen and is important for formation of red blood cell.
Deficiency of folic acid is common in the elderly, alcoholics. Deficiency in vitamin B9 may increase birth defects or unhealthy child. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding, people under stress for long periods, people with severe burns or injuries and people who are malnourished are common deficient of folic acid.
Deficiency in folic acid might cause acne, a sore tongue, cracking at corner of the mouth. Deficiency of folate cause diarrhea, anemia, loss of appetite, heart burn, swollen tongue and other symptoms like a type of dark brown, blotchy pigmentation that normally appears on face, palm, on the thighs.
A deficiency of folic acid on pregnant woman may increase of the baby being born with spina bifida and other defects to nervous system. Deficiency in vitamin B9 may cause birth defects such as neural tube defects and anencephaly. Deficiency in folic acid will enhance low production of milk after delivery.
Low dietary intake and diminishing absorption cause decreased supply of folate. Certain conditions in cancer may result in increased rates of cell division and metabolism. Deficiency in vitamin B9 causes poor growth, macrocytic anemia, and irritation in mouth.
Folic deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies, which can result in reduced number of red blood cell. Side effects may include weakness, headache, difficulty in concentration and shortness of breathing.
Vitamin B9 is an important vitamin in vitamin B family. This is water soluble and stable in acid solution. Leafy vegetables and citrus fruits are common source of vitamin B9. Orange, meat, poultry, and orange juice are rich in vitamin B9.
