Folate is a member of the B vitamins family and is essential to the formation of red and white blood cells in the bone marrow, the conversion of carbohydrates into energy and the production of DNA and RNA. For those with or without cancer, folate or vitamin B9 benefits the body and can promote an improved state of well-being.
Folate is Good for the Heart
Individuals deficient in folate may have elevated levels of the amino acid homocysteine in their blood. Folate, together with vitamins B6 and B12, helps the body metabolize homocysteine and supports normal cardiovascular function. Maintaining adequate folate intake is an important part of a balanced diet for overall health.
Support Healthy Cholesterol Levels
Maintaining healthy levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), sometimes called “bad” cholesterol, is important for cardiovascular health. Some studies suggest that folate or folic acid may have a beneficial effect on lowering LDL cholesterol.
Symptoms of Folate Deficiency Include:
Low energy, poor digestion, frequent sickness, anemia, canker sores, mood swings, paleness, premature grey hair: Any or all of these symptoms are attributable to diverse factors, however, can also be a sign of low levels of folate in the body.
Foods Rich in Folate Include:
- Leafy greens like spinach, kale, collard greens, mustard greens, romaine lettuce and turnip greens
- Vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, avocado, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, beets, corn, celery, carrots, and squash.
- Fruits including papaya, oranges, grapefruits, kiwi, strawberries, and raspberries.
- Beans, lentils and some peas
- Nuts and seeds, specifically sunflower seeds, peanut, flaxseed, and almonds.
Clearly, there are enough foods rich in folate to suit any palate. Maintaining sufficient levels of the B vitamin in the body helps allow its critical systems to stand strong.
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Source:
https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/folic-acid-foods/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/285666.php
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23893618
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24002360
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/atherosclerosis
https://stemcells.nih.gov/info/basics/stc-basics
https://www.nfcr.org/blog/blogfolate-improved-health/
