Much research has shown the benefits of folate intake for pregnant mothers. Some studies have indicated that women who had folic acid deficiencies were more likely to experience delivery complications or have babies with birth defects.
For this reason, the U.S. requires that some foods are fortified with the B vitamin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that healthcare providers should instruct their female patients who are of child-bearing age to consume 400 micrograms of synthetic folic acid each day through either supplements or dietary means.
A recent article published by Reuters Health cited a study that appeared in the journal Pediatrics, which found that teens who had normal or elevated levels of folic acid performed better in school than those who with deficient amounts.
Researchers explained that the nutrient is found in green produce like leafy vegetables and legumes.
The study's results showed that levels of folic acid corresponded with the participants' academic grades, indicating that individuals with folate deficiencies had decreased brain health, compared to their counterparts with normal or high amounts.
Source: drcutler.com
