Vitamin
B9 is
also known as folic acid, and it belongs to the vitamin B complex family. It is
essential for the facilitation of metabolic processes in the human body. It
aids in the synthesis of nucleic acids as well as the production of heme, which
is a pigmented component of hemoglobin, the iron-carrying protein molecule that
transports oxygen in red blood cells. Other than performing these essential
functions of the human body, vitamin B9 also brings a wide range of other
health benefits.
1.
Countering Vitamin B9 Deficiency
Deficiency
in vitamin B9 can result in symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, anemia,
diarrhea, weakness, weight loss, malnutrition, headache, mood swing, insomnia,
breathing difficulty, heart palpitations, paranoia and memory problems. If no
measures are taken to counter vitamin B9 deficiency, a condition called
megaloblastic anemia may develop. Sufficient intake of vitamin B9 will help to
prevent these symptoms.
2.
Preventing Stroke and Heart Disease
It has
been proven that folic acid is effective in lowering homocysteine levels in the
blood. Homocysteine is a form of amino acid that is present in certain meats,
and it can cause damage to arterial walls, which will in turn lead to the
occurrence of atherosclerosis. This condition is known to cause diseases such
as stroke and heart diseases.
3.
Protection Against Lung Cancer
Research
has shown that high levels of vitamin B9 can help to prevent lung cancer. An
increase in the consumption of vitamin B9 can control the growth of
precancerous bronchial cells in people who smoke. Smoking can deplete the
supply of vitamins in the body, and low vitamin B9 levels can contribute to the
development of lung cancer in smokers as well as ordinary people.
4.
Preventing Cervix and Colon Cancer in
Women
According
to studies, vitamin B9 can improve symptoms of ulcerative colitis, and women
who have high levels of vitamin B9 are 60% less susceptible to colon cancer.
However, men’s risk of contracting colon cancer remains the same despite
increased intake of vitamin B9, and researchers have yet to find out the reason
for this.
5.
Lowering Risk of Premature Birth and
Birth Defects
Increased
consumption of vitamin B9 will help pregnant women prevent premature birth and
neural tube defects in their babies. Efficient development of the neural tube
will contribute to the formation of a baby's healthy spinal cord and brain
development. It is also known that deficiency of vitamin B9 in pregnant women
can also lead to low birth weight.
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