Folic acid and folate: what they are and how they are used
Folic acid is the supplement form of folate, a B-vitamin found in leafy greens and legumes. It contributes to normal cell division and normal blood formation. On Mzansi Hub it appears in Hairon, a hair-nutrition supplement.
Key takeaways
- Folate is the natural form in food; folic acid is the form used in supplements and fortified foods.
- It contributes to normal cell division, normal blood formation and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- It is named in Hairon alongside biotin, zinc, vitamin D3, vitamin E and saw palmetto.
- Women planning a pregnancy should follow their GP's advice on folic acid.
- Ask a pharmacist if you already take other folate-containing supplements.
What is folic acid?
Folic acid is a B-vitamin, also known as vitamin B9. It is the form of folate used in supplements and in fortified foods. Your body uses it to build and maintain cells, which is why it matters throughout life.
It dissolves in water, so you need a regular supply from food or supplements rather than a single large dose.
What is the difference between folate and folic acid?
Folate is the name for the natural forms found in food, such as spinach, broccoli, legumes and citrus fruit. Folic acid is the man-made form used in supplements, and it is stable enough to survive storage and cooking better than natural folate.
In South Africa, maize meal and bread flour are fortified with folic acid, so many people already get some through everyday staples. That is one reason to check the total amount if you take a supplement as well.
What does folic acid contribute to?
Authorised-style nutrient wording says folate contributes to normal cell division, to normal blood formation, to normal amino acid synthesis, to normal psychological function, and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. It also contributes to normal function of the immune system.
Hair follicles contain some of the fastest-dividing cells in the body, which is one reason B-vitamins feature in hair-nutrition formulas.
- Normal cell division
- Normal blood formation
- Normal amino acid synthesis
- Reduction of tiredness and fatigue
Which Mzansi Hub product contains folic acid?
Folic acid is among the nutrients the seller lists for Hairon, a 30-capsule hair-nutrition supplement priced at R649. The label names saw palmetto, biotin, zinc and vitamin D3, and the seller also lists vitamin E and folic acid.
The seller describes Hairon as supporting healthy hair growth, strengthening hair strands and nourishing follicles, for men and women 35 and older. The directions are one capsule a day after a meal with a glass of water, completing the course.
Visit the Hairon product page for the order details, the FAQ and customer opinions.
How do I use folic acid with care?
Follow the directions on the pack and take capsules with a meal. If you already take a multivitamin or a B-complex, ask your pharmacist to check the total amount of folic acid.
Women who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy should follow their GP's advice on folic acid and vitamins, as the right amount is a personal decision. Speak to your GP or pharmacist too if you take medicines for epilepsy, arthritis or cancer, as folate can interact with some of them.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between folate and folic acid?
Folate is the natural form found in food such as leafy greens and legumes. Folic acid is the form used in supplements and fortified foods.
What does folic acid contribute to?
It contributes to normal cell division, normal blood formation and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
Which foods contain folate?
Spinach, broccoli, beans, lentils, chickpeas and citrus fruit are good sources. Maize meal and bread flour in South Africa are fortified with folic acid.
Is Hairon suitable if I am planning a pregnancy?
Women planning a pregnancy should follow their GP's advice on folic acid and vitamins before choosing any supplement.
Which Mzansi Hub product has folic acid?
Hairon, a hair-nutrition supplement with biotin, zinc, vitamin D3, vitamin E, saw palmetto and folic acid, priced at R649 for 30 capsules.
