Folic acid boasts a range of benefits for your health:

1. Crucial for Pregnancy: Taking folic acid before and during pregnancy is vital. It helps prevent neural tube defects in the developing baby, which are serious birth defects of the brain and spine [1].
2. Red Blood Cell Production: Folic acid is essential for making healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body. A deficiency can lead to anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
3. DNA Synthesis and Repair: Folic acid plays a key role in creating and repairing DNA, the genetic material in your cells.
4. May Reduce Heart Disease Risk: Studies suggest that folic acid may help lower homocysteine levels in the blood. High homocysteine is a risk factor for heart disease, and folic acid may help reduce this risk.
5. Promotes Cell Growth: Since folic acid is involved in cell division, it’s important for overall growth and development, especially during critical periods like infancy and pregnancy.

These are some of the key benefits of folic acid. It’s a vital nutrient for maintaining good health.