Folic Acid
A B-vitamin needed for proper nucleic acid and amino acid metabolism. Folic acid plays a particularly critical role in the metabolism of the amino acid methionine; deficiency can result in a buildup of homocysteine – a harmful metabolite that’s a marker of cardiovascular disease risk. Adequate folic acid intake is particularly important during pregnancy, for the prevention of neural tube defects.
See: “Folic Acid Information & Benefits” and the Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Information Center for more information.
