These 7 Signs Might Mean Your Body Needs More Folic Acid

Sep 10, 2018

Folic acid, which occurs in other forms as folate and vitamin B9, is necessary for the repair of DNA and the production of red blood cells. Folate is best taken in through a healthy diet. You can get folate from dark green vegetables including asparagus, spinach, Brussels sprouts and broccoli. You should also eat whole grains, mushrooms, beans and citrus fruits regularly. Adults should get 400 micrograms of folic acid daily. When they do not, they may suffer from some of the symptoms listed below.

Your central nervous system needs folic acid in order to function correctly. A lack of folic acid can result in irritability, forgetfulness, depression and difficulty concentrating. Over time, not getting enough folic acid can contribute to the likelihood of getting Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

A lack of folic acid can cause anemia, and this can lead to less oxygen to the brain. Because of the lack of oxygen, you might develop headaches. You may also feel aches in your legs and chest as well as in other areas. These are all signs you might need to up your folic acid intake.

The anemia caused by insufficient folate also means a lack of red blood cells and a protein known as hemoglobin that is found in those red blood cells. This can cause fatigue and weak muscles. Your hands and feet may be numb, and your skin might also turn pale. If you have these symptoms, you may need to get your folate levels checked.

This lack of oxygen to red blood cells also means that you may start running out of breath while doing activities that are normally no problem for you. You might become dizzy and your heart rate could increase. You might even faint. Doctors can check for anemia caused by the low folate levels that result in these types of symptoms.

These are often the first indications of a folic acid deficiency. You might suffer from diarrhea, stomach pain, vomiting or nausea. Over time, if your deficiency continues to go untreated, this could result in severe weight loss. These are all signs you need to seek a medical opinion.

When your folate deficiency becomes severe, your tongue may become shiny, red and swollen. It might also be sore. You may also have sores in your mouth, and swallowing might be painful.

These tongue problems will eventually interfere with your sense of taste according to some studies. Papillae, which are the taste receptors located on your tongue, will not be able to send your brain messages.

These symptoms can indicate may different conditions, so if you have them, you should see a doctor. You may need to change your diet or take supplements. You may need other treatments depending on how severe your deficiency is.

Have you or has someone you know ever suffered from a folate deficiency, and if so, how was it resolved? Pass this on to your friends and loved ones who might need this article as well.

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation with your doctor. Your health is important to us!