Folate

Folic acid deficiency is common in pregnant women, alcoholics, in patients whose diets do not include raw fruits and vegetables, and in people with structural damage to the small intestine. Low folic acid levels, however, can also be the result of a primary vitamin B12 deficiency that decreases the ability of cells to take up folic acid.

Folate is considered a vitamin that has an important function in the human body. Folate, along with vitamin B12, are two vitamins which are required for the normal red blood cell production and formation, for repairing of tissues that get damaged as well as synthesis of DNA. Both of these substances cannot be produced in the body and require diet or other supplementation. Folate is important in the cell and DNA division and repair for tissues and cells. Deficiency of these two vitamins can lead to macrocytic anaemia. Folate is supplemented in pregnancy to prevent the development of neural tube defects and spina bifida.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Dizziness
• Pale skin
• Fatigue, muscle weakness
• Rapid heart rate, irregular heartbeats
• Shortness of breath
• Sore tongue and mouth
• Tingling, numbness, and/or burning in the feet, hands, arms, and legs

Also Known As: Folic Acid