[custom_adv] It is a complex B vitamin, similar to vitamin B-12. Vitamin B-9 and its forms carry out the crucial functions of creating more red blood cells, preventing hearing loss, and preserving the brain health of infants. [custom_adv] Folic acid is often used to support a methotrexate prescription for rheumatoid arthritis. Methotrexate is an effective medicine for this condition. [custom_adv] However, folic acid supplements have been shown to reduce the gastrointestinal side effects of methotrexate by 79 percent. Speak to a doctor for recommendations on how much to take, and how often. 1 milligram (mg) per day is often prescribed. [custom_adv] Every woman capable of getting pregnant should be taking daily folic acid supplements. Women over the age of 14 years should take 400 micrograms (mcg) per day, and this should increase to 600 mcg during a pregnancy. [custom_adv] Dark green vegetables are good sources of folic acid. Be careful not to overcook them, as the folic acid content can drop considerably when exposed to heat. [custom_adv] As folate is important for producing and maintaining red blood cells, inadequate levels can mean that there are not enough red blood cells to supply the body with a healthy level of oxygen. [custom_adv] Folic acid deficiency anemia can occur in people with underlying conditions, such as sickle cell anemia. It can also affect people with conditions that affect folate absorption. Alcohol abuse or kidney disease can reduce the ability of the body to effectively absorb folate.
