Folic Acid: Essential Vitamin B9 For Supplementation, Fortification, And Health Benefits

Key Features:

• Chemical Formula: C19H19N7O6
• Molecular Weight: 441.39 g/mol
• Appearance: Yellow to orange crystalline powder
• Solubility: Soluble in water

Uses and Applications:

1. Nutritional Supplements:

   • Dietary Supplement: Commonly used in multivitamins and standalone supplements to ensure adequate intake of folate, especially in pregnant women to prevent neural tube defects.
   • Fortification: Added to foods such as cereals and bread to fortify diets and prevent deficiencies in the general population.

2. Medical Applications:

   • Treatment of Deficiency: Used to treat folate deficiency conditions such as megaloblastic anemia and to support patients with certain medical conditions that require increased folate intake.
   • Pregnancy Care: Prescribed during pregnancy to reduce the risk of birth defects and promote healthy fetal development.

3. Research and Clinical Studies:

   • Biochemical Research: Utilized in research to study its role in various physiological processes, including its impact on cardiovascular health and cognitive function.

Advantages:

• Essential Nutrient: Vital for DNA synthesis and repair, cell division, and red blood cell formation.
• Preventive Health Benefits: Helps prevent birth defects and supports overall health.

Safety and Handling:

• Handling Precautions: Generally considered safe when used as directed. Avoid excessive intake, which can sometimes lead to masking vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and heat. Keep containers tightly closed.

Regulatory Information:

• Complies with dietary supplement regulations and is approved for use in food and medical applications by relevant health authorities.
• Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA): Varies by age, gender, and health condition. For adults, the typical RDA is around 400 micrograms (mcg) per day.

Packaging:

• Available in various forms including tablets, capsules, powders, and in bulk packaging.