folate
Last edited 02/2023 and last reviewed 04/2023
Folate (folic acid, pteroylglutamic acid) is a water soluble vitamin that is a component of enzyme systems synthesising purines and pyrimidines.
It is essential for the normal production of white and red blood cells.
Folate is synthesised by bacteria of the gastrointestinal tract.
Other sources include green leafy vegetables and liver.
The normal daily requirements are 100-200 microgrammes per day. Adult requirement is 200 mcg per day
- adults need 200 micrograms of folate a day. A microgram is 1,000 times smaller than a milligram (mg)
Absorption occurs in the duodenum and jejunum.
There are sufficient body stores for four months supply.
Reference:
folic acid and prophylaxis against neural tube defects
raised / high serum folic acid levels ( folate levels)