Folic Acid

Folic Acid (or Folate) is necessary for the production and maintenance of new cells. It also helps prevent changes to DNA that may lead to cancer. Both adults and children need folate to make normal red blood cells and prevent anemia. Research is now confirming a link between blood levels of folate and not only cardiovascular disease, but dementias, including Alzheimer's disease.

Folic acid is very important in pregnancy, helping to regulate embryonic and fetal nerve cell formation.

Folic acid can be obtained from such sources as from barley, brewers yeast liver and green leafy vegetables.