Folic acid: What is it?

Folic acid is also known by the name folate and it is a B-vitamin, specifically B-9.

Where does Folic acid come from?

Folic acid is most commonly found in vitamin supplements, but is also found in B-9 enriched foods, such as some cereals, pasta and bread.

How will Folic acid impact my health?

Women are encouraged to take folic acid supplements at least one month before conceiving a child. If taken one month before conception and throughout the first trimester of pregnancy, studies show that this precautionary measure can reduce the risk of birth defects, specifically Neural tube defects (NTD) affected pregnancy by as much as 50-70 percent. Folic acid has a significant impact on the fetus, since it is responsible for DNA production. Folic acid is still somewhat of a mystery, but it plays a vital role in tissue production and when taken correctly it will help to ensure that the fetal organs are developed in the early stages of pregnancy. Some studies show that taking folic acid can lower homocysteine levels and therefore, can lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. Studies are currently being conducted to show whether or not folic acid can prevent heart disease and even cancer.

What precautions should I be aware of?

Folic acid has been found to be non-toxic in all levels. So there is no need to worry about whether or not you are getting too much folic acid. It is however recommended that no more than 1,000 micrograms of folic acid be taken per day since is can cause doctors to not be able to recognize the symptoms of B-12 deficiency or anemia. B-12 deficiency is most commonly found in the older population and in that population, can lead to neurological damage. You should always consult your doctor before beginning any supplement program.

Recommended Folic acid Supplement

We have stumbled upon a company that produces a product that provides the highest quality of Folic acid is Xtend-Life Natural Products from New Zealand. Xtend-Life has one of the strictest regulatory environments in the world for the manufacture of dietary supplements, far exceeding U.S. FDA standards.

Their flagship product, Total Balance, contains standardized Folic acid, along with many other potent herbal supplement extracts, numerous vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other speciality nutrients, many of which are documented in this site.

We here at www.InstantHealthSecret.com personally take Xtend-Life's Total Balance as the foundation of our own health regimen and have achieved excellent results: we have noticed an increase in energy, mental acuity, and general sense of well-being.