Folacin
Folacin
Folacin (pronounced /ˈfoʊləsɪn/), also known as Folic Acid or Vitamin B9, is a type of B vitamin that is crucial for the body's overall health and well-being.
Etymology
The term "Folacin" is derived from the Latin word "folium", which means "leaf". This is because the vitamin was first isolated from spinach leaves.
Function
Folacin plays a vital role in the body's ability to produce and maintain new cells, particularly during periods of rapid cell division and growth such as infancy and pregnancy. It is also necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, the body's genetic material, and is important in preventing changes to DNA that may lead to cancer.
Related Terms
- Anemia: A condition that can occur if the body does not have enough folacin. It can lead to a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the body.
- Neural Tube Defects: Birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord that can occur in an infant if the mother does not consume enough folacin during pregnancy.
- Homocysteine: An amino acid in the blood that can be reduced by consuming enough folacin, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.
Sources
Folacin can be found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, fruits, dried beans, peas, and nuts. It is also available in supplement form and is often added to fortified foods such as breads, cereals, and other grain products.
Deficiency
A deficiency in folacin can lead to a variety of health problems, including anemia, poor growth, and tongue inflammation. It can also lead to neural tube defects in an unborn child if the mother is deficient in folacin during pregnancy.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Folacin
- Wikipedia's article - Folacin
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