Folate deficiency is a rather lesser known problem that not many people are aware of. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to understand the signs and symptoms.
Do you feel tired all the time? You are not alone. This has become a common problem in the world of bustling culture. While there are various reasons that can lead to (almost) endless fatigue. Lack of folate deficiency is one of them. Now the question is, what exactly is folate deficiency? It is a type of B vitamin that helps make DNA, make red blood cells (RBCs), etc. Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is important for energy production and body function.
Not eating enough folate can lead to a deficiency in just a few weeks. Deficiency can also occur if you have a condition or genetic mutation that prevents your body from absorbing or converting folate into its usable form. Folate deficiency can cause anemia. Anemia is a condition in which you have too few red blood cells that carry oxygen to the body.
Symptoms of folate deficiency
- chronic fatigue
- Weakness
- swelling of the tongue
- Lethargy
- Irritability
- Pale skin
- Difficulty breathing
According to Healthline.com, you should eat a diet rich in folic acid to improve the symptoms mentioned above. According to the National Institutes of Health, the recommended daily intake of folate for adults is 400 micrograms (mcg) per day. However, pregnant women require more, with a recommended intake of 600-800 mcg per day, depending on their age. According to healthline.com, folate deficiency can cause anemia. Anemia is a condition in which you have too few red blood cells. Anemia can deprive your tissues of the oxygen they need because red blood cells carry oxygen. This can affect its function.
Folate is particularly important in people with uteri of childbearing age. A folate deficiency during pregnancy can cause birth irregularities.
Folate is necessary for the normal production of red blood cells. Complications of a deficiency can include:
- megaloblastic anemia, which means the red blood cells are larger than normal and not fully developed
- low levels of white blood cells and platelets
- severe birth irregularities in the spinal cord and brain of a developing fetus, called neural tube defects
- peripheral neuropathy
Foods rich in folate:
- Green vegetables like broccoli, spinach
- Brussels sprouts
- mobs
- Citric fruits
- Eggs
- Beans
Therefore, it is very important to be aware and understand if any of these symptoms persist in the body for a long time, it is time to see a doctor. However, this is generic information.
Published Date: May 16, 2023 5:20 PM IST
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