lack of vitamin B9 can cause anemia and even irritability

You may have already heard about the importance of vitamin B9, also known as folic acid, for pregnant women. However, this nutrient is important for everyone. In addition to acting in the formation of babies during pregnancy, it is present in cognitive functions and is fundamental for mental health and mood regulation.

Folic acid is part of the B complex group of vitamins and, like them, acts on cellular metabolism functions. It is also essential for maintaining brain health, DNA and red blood cell production.

The lack of this nutrient triggers a series of problems, which can range from anemia to excessive irritability. Therefore, a diet that includes vitamin B9 is necessary, as well as paying attention to possible symptoms in case of insufficiency.

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Functions of folic acid in the body and mind

Vitamin B9 is involved in metabolism and development processes in the body. The gynecologist, Henrique Cassiano, points out some of the functions that the nutrient has:

• Production of red blood cells in the blood;
• Development of the fetal neural tube during pregnancy;
• Transfer of carbons for the synthesis of DNA and RNA;
• Reduction of homocysteine ​​levels in the blood.

Another role of the B9 is in people’s well-being. “Folate [B9] it also plays a role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which are directly involved in regulating mood, sleep and the response to stress”, explains Cassiano.

Furthermore, the expert points out that the nutrient helps maintain brain health and prevent neurodegenerative diseases.

What can cause B9 deficiency

Folic acid deficiency is observed in situations of insufficient food intake, difficulty in absorption, as well as increased need, excretion and/or destruction of the vitamin in the body.

According to the doctor, there are other factors that can impair nutrient absorption:

• Nutritional status: a balanced diet rich in foods containing folic acid facilitates the absorption of this vitamin;
• Vitamin B12 levels: as low levels of this vitamin can impair the absorption of folic acid;
• Alcohol consumption: alcohol interferes with the absorption and metabolism of folic acid;
• Effects of medicines: some drugs such as anticonvulsants, methotrexate and sulfasalazine can interfere with the absorption or metabolism of folate;
• Gastrointestinal tract integrity: people with celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and pancreatic insufficiency, which affect the intestinal tract, may have B9 absorption affected;
• Genetic mutation: Genetic changes can affect the body’s ability to convert folic acid into its active form, Methylfolate.

Main affected groups

The groups most affected by folic acid deficiency include:

• Women of childbearing age;
• Pregnant women;
• Babies and children;
• People with absorption problems, such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease;
• Alcoholics (those who consume alcohol in excess);
• Elderly.

Symptoms of Folic Acid Deficiency

Folic acid deficiency can manifest itself in different ways, depending on the stage of life they are in. Babies and children have:

• Anemia;
• Irritability;
• Growth delay;
• Delay in cognitive development.

Furthermore, according to Henrique Cassiano, when there is an insufficiency of the nutrient in women of childbearing age and pregnant women, children are more likely to be born with spina bifidaa malformation in the spine, and anencephaly.

Already in adult peoplethe most common symptoms are:

• Anemia;
• Weakness;
• Fatigue;
• Irritability;
• Palpitations;
• Neurological problems.

According to the expert, there is damage to the brain as well. “Folic acid deficiency has also been associated with cognitive impairment and deterioration of brain function, especially in the elderly”, he begins. “It can aggravate symptoms of irritability, fatigue and low energy, negatively affecting emotional well-being”, he concludes.

In cases of long-term disabilitythe above symptoms are common, as well as the development of:

• Megaloblastic anemia;
• Concentration suppression;
• Diarrhea;
• Loss of appetite;
• Nutrient absorption problems.

Importance of folic acid for pregnant women and baby development

During pregnancy, folic acid plays a role in the formation of babies in the first weeks of pregnancy. “Folic acid is essential for the healthy development of the neural tube and central nervous system of the fetus”, explains Henrique Cassiano. Likewise, the nutrient helps prevent anatomical changes such as spina bifida and anencephaly.

Furthermore, there is also an increased demand for blood cells and the nutrient is necessary for adequate production of red blood cells.

In this sense, to ensure an adequate intake of vitamin B9 during pregnancy, the doctor recommends a diet with foods rich in B9. Furthermore, it is recommended that nutrient supplementation begins three months before the start of pregnancy and continues throughout the period.

How to treat folic acid deficiency?

Firstly, food is the main source of vitamin B9. Some foods rich in folic acid are:

• Dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, romaine lettuce and broccoli;
• Legumes such as beans, lentils and peas;
• Citrus fruits such as oranges and avocados;
• Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa and oats;
• Beef liver and egg yolks.

In fact, the gynecologist points out that many foods are fortified with folic acid, such as breakfast cereals, breads and grain products.

Secondly, there is supplementation. Folic acid is available in the form of vitamin supplements and is found as part of vitamin B complexes. It is also possible to find it in the form of methylfolate, the active form of the vitamin.

It is important to contact your doctor to check the best forms of supplementation.

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