Thursday 29 April 2010

Do you get enough Folic Acid?

Latest research at Germany's Max-Rubner-Institute (MRI) shows that 86 % of women and 79 % of men do not get their recommended daily intake (400 micrograms) of folic acid.
Folic acid plays an important role in the segmentation and development of cells, the development of DNA, the body's ability to produce blood, and metabolic processes. Normally, we get this vitamin through food, but if the contents are not enough, we develop a special kind of anaemia after 4 or 5 months. If folic acid levels are low, we are more prone to develop certain illnesses. For example, the homocysteine level in the blood can increase. Hgh homocysteine levels can be responsible for cardio-vascular diseases and stroke. The connection, however, still needs to be scientifically researched. It is recommended, nevertheless, to have our homocysteine levels checked, and if it is too high, to take measures. This is especially important for people who carry the risk to develop cardio-vascular diseases and stroke or for those who already suffer from those ailments. Homocysteine is produced and degraded in the body during normal metabolic processes. If this process is disrupted, however, the homocysteine levels rise. In a high concentration, it will damage the blood vessels. If we get enough folic acid, the homocysteine levels will go down. Additionally, we will need Vitamins B6 and B12.
Natural sources for folic acid are leavy greens, whole grain products and grain sprouts, liver (organically sourced!), soft cheese and oranges.

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