Folic acid benefits for women. Folic acid: benefits and harms, composition, instructions for use and indications. Useful properties and indications

The benefits of folic acid or vitamin B9 have long been known. However, active promotion of the reception began about 10 years ago. The drugs are recommended for pregnant patients and people suffering from anemia, due to their properties. Before use, the benefits and harms of folic acid are taken into account.

Composition of folic acid

The benefits of folic acid for the body is to regulate metabolism, the synthesis of immunity cells, the production of DNA, the normalization of work digestive system. Vitamin B9 is beneficial for pregnant women. Its sufficient intake in the body prevents defects in the development of the neural tube and other pathologies in the fetus, which cause significant harm.

Important! The history of the discovery of folic acid began in 1926, when a specific form of anemia was discovered in pregnant patients. Translated from Latin the term means leaf.

Folic acid preparations usually contain several elements. The main component is vitamin B9. The remaining components do not have a significant effect.

Medications can have a different cost, which depends on the number of tablets in the package and production. There are the following dosages of tablets in mcg:

• 400;
• 800;
• 1000.

Folic acid levels determine mood. Vitamin B9 has health benefits that are manifested in the metabolism of serotonin and adrenaline, which are neurotransmitters.

Benefits of folic acid for the body

Beneficial features folic acid are undeniable. Vitamin B9 is directly involved in the synthesis and metabolism of acids and amino acids.

Folic acid is beneficial in the following conditions:

• anemia associated with a lack of an element, radiation, gastrectomy and the use of drugs;
• tropical diarrhea;
• tuberculosis and inflammation of the intestines of a chronic nature;
• pregnancy;
• lactation period;
• lack of an element in the body.

Therapeutic doses of folic acid are beneficial in the following cases:

• severe symptoms of B9 deficiency;
• the presence of factors leading to a lack of an element;
• the use of COCs before planning conception;
• the use of Maalox, Phosphalugel, anticonvulsants;
• protein diet;
• low consumption of plant foods;
• dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract.

Important! The results of the study proved the beneficial properties of folic acid in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.

For women

Folic acid benefits a woman's body. Sufficient intake of the substance ensures adequate functioning of the endocrine, musculoskeletal systems and the gastrointestinal tract. The benefit of vitamin B9 lies in the effect on metabolic processes. Useful folic acid prevents weight gain. Thus, the element indirectly affects the cardiovascular system.

A useful component improves mood, which is especially important for PMS and menopausal changes, which are accompanied by increased nervousness, excitability and lability.

The benefits of folic acid for women over 40 are clear. It is known that with age, the metabolism slows down, the absorption of nutrients worsens, which is harmful to health. The beneficial properties of folic acid for women help prevent unwanted symptoms that occur due to hormonal changes in premenopause and menopause.

For pregnant

Folic acid has benefits for pregnant women due to its properties. It is essential to maintain optimal level substances for several months before a planned pregnancy. Sufficient intake of the substance before conception reduces the risk of dangerous malformations in the child.

Attention! According to research results, in 80% of cases, there is a decrease in the likelihood of congenital malformations of the fetus when using preparations containing vitamin B9 before conception.

Experts point out that during pregnancy, the body needs more nutrients than before conception. The component is not deposited in the body in reserve due to its properties. This indicates the need for folic acid intake from the outside. It is especially important to maintain an adequate amount of the vitamin during the 1st trimester. It is during this period that the bookmark takes place internal organs and development nervous system The child has.

The main purpose of taking the nutrient during pregnancy is to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. In addition, folic acid is involved in mitosis and renewal of cellular elements. The brain of the embryo begins its development in the second week. Serious harm can occur even with a slight shortage of a micronutrient.

Attention! The lack of an element can be harmful in the form of anomalies in the development of the nervous system. Reception of drugs should be carried out before conception in an adequate dosage. An excess of a component can also be harmful.

A lack of a useful vitamin sometimes leads to postpartum depression and a decrease in the amount of milk. Nutrient level in breast milk, respectively, decreases, which causes its insufficient use by the child. Harm can be observed in the development of anemia, low body weight, disruption of the intestines. Folic acid is considered practically the only synthetic vitamin that is vital for both therapeutic and prophylactic purposes.

For men

Folic acid has benefits for men. Against the background of a chronic deficiency of the component, the development of certain pathologies, for example, infertility and anemia, is possible.

The main indicators of men's health include the state of germ cells, which is understood as spermatozoa. For their production, the body requires nucleic acids and protein. Nutrient deficiency leads to disruption of sperm production:

• decreased concentration and mobility;
• morphological disorders, for example, an unnatural shape, lack of a tail.

Attention! Folic acid benefits the male body. With the wrong number of chromosomes, hereditary diseases in a child (Down syndrome) are not excluded.

For kids

In combination with other vitamins, microelements and macronutrients, folic acid ensures the full development of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract. Insufficient intake of the substance along with food and as part of preparations can be harmful in the form of developmental disorders in the child's body.

Vitamin B9 is essential for male body at puberty. Due to the beneficial properties of the nutrient, secondary sexual characteristics develop, including coarsening of the voice, intensive growth and growth of hair on the body and face.

Symptoms of a lack of folic acid in the body

During heat treatment, a significant percentage of folic acid, which is found in food, is lost. Nutrient deficiency is noted with its low content in the diet, insufficient absorption, as well as with an increase in body needs. Hypovitaminosis can be the result of excessive drinking.

Often, a micronutrient deficiency is observed in pregnant women and infants under one year old. The lack of an element can harm the pregnant woman and the fetus in the form of the following consequences:

• miscarriage (placental abruption or miscarriage);
• congenital developmental anomalies (neural tube defect);
• backwardness;
• brain pathology;
• cleft palate;
• spina bifida;
• preeclampsia and anemia in a pregnant woman;
• hare lip.

Signs of hypovitaminosis appear within a month and depend on a balanced diet. The following symptoms are noted:

• nervousness;
• weakness;
• poor appetite;
• vomit;
• diarrhea;
• alopecia;
• mouth ulcers.

These symptoms are especially pronounced in the background breastfeeding. Hypovitaminosis can lead to postpartum depression.

Folic acid deficiency is observed in a significant number of people. In some cases, hypovitaminosis progresses asymptomatically. In the absence of therapeutic intake, the risk of stroke and heart attack increases significantly.

Experts also talk about the benefits of folic acid for the liver. The lack of a micronutrient can be observed with serious pathologies of the organ. It is the liver that converts the vitamin into tetrahydrofolate.

Important! Deficiency of the element often develops as a result of diets and antibiotics. In the US, the vitamin is added to flour to prevent beriberi. The prophylactic dose of the substance is 2 times higher than in the Russian Federation.

Rules for taking and dosage of folic acid

Folic acid intake can be both therapeutic and prophylactic. The dosage is recommended by the doctor, taking into account the needs of the body.

When planning a pregnancy

Prophylactic intake during pregnancy planning is 2-3 mg per day.

During pregnancy

In the absence of a shortage in the element, the daily dose is 0.4 mg per day. The dosage increases to 0.8 mg per day against the background of deficient conditions.

When breastfeeding

During lactation, the required dosage of the micronutrient increases and amounts to 0.3-0.6 mg per day. Useful vitamin can be taken in the form of multivitamin complexes.

Attention! An excess of the element will not cause harm. The excess amount is independently excreted from the female body, thanks to the properties of the nutrient.

For women over 40

Sufficient intake of the micronutrient provides a reduction in the signs of menopausal changes due to beneficial properties. Prophylactic administration involves the consumption of up to 0.3 mg of the substance once a day. The presence of hypovitaminosis can cause serious harm to the body and indicates the necessary intake of a therapeutic dose of up to 1 mg daily.

With anemia

The folate-deficiency type of anemia is harmful in the form of impaired cell maturation. The dosage of useful folacin during the development of a pathological condition varies from 1 to 5 mg.

For weight loss

An additional intake of a useful nutrient is necessary when losing weight due to its properties. The prophylactic dose avoids the development of hypovitaminosis and is 400-800 mcg per day.

What foods contain folic acid

The nutrient is not synthesized by the body. significant portion beneficial substance comes with food and vitamin supplements. With violations of the digestive tract, the assimilation of the element is often difficult.

The micronutrient is found mainly in plant foods, which have a lot of useful properties:

• onion, spinach, dill, parsley;
• peas, beans;
• buckwheat, oats and bran;
• bananas, grapefruit, melon;
• walnut, dried apricots;
• pumpkin, beet.

A useful source of the element is meat products:

• pork;
• mutton;
• kidneys and liver;
• bird.

Dairy products and fish are distinguished by many useful properties and a sufficient content of the substance. When using bifidobacteria, stimulation of the formation of the nutrient in the intestine is noted.

It should be remembered that the beneficial properties of plant foods are destroyed during heat treatment and long-term storage. The destruction of the micronutrient in meat is slower. That is why experts recommend eating plant foods in the form of salads without heat treatment. They retain maximum useful properties.

Attention! Benefits can be expected from the consumption of tomato and orange juice, liver, containing folic acid in significant quantities.

Products containing folic acid

Useful vitamin B9 is available in several dosage forms.

Pills

Tablets are easy to use. Experts call the following popular names:

• Folic acid (100 or 400 mg);
• Foliber (B9 and B12);
• Folic acid Doppelgerz Active (B9, C, B6, B12, E);
• Maltofer (B9 and iron);
• Fenyuls zinc (B9, zinc, iron).

Important! Tablets should be taken with meals.

Ampoules

The benefits of the drug can be expected when using ampoules. The drug is used in the form of injections due to its properties. Each ampoule contains 400 mcg as the active ingredient.

Folic acid harm and side effects

High doses of drugs are not always beneficial and can be harmful in the form of an overdose. Undesirable effects cannot be ruled out, which include:

• allergic reactions;
• bronchospasm;
• hyperemia;
• skin redness;
• rash.

It has been proven that the nutrient in dosages significantly exceeding the average does not cause harm in the form of toxic effects. However, anemia may develop, which is associated with the properties of the substance. An overdose sometimes provokes kidney dysfunction, stool disorders, and increases excitability.

Contraindications to taking folic acid

The element has many useful qualities and properties. There are no significant contraindications to admission. Doctors do not recommend taking folic acid supplements in the following cases:

• hypersensitivity reactions;
• deficiency of sucrose and isomaltase;
• age up to 3 years;
• fructose intolerance.

Important! It is advisable to start taking medications after consulting a doctor so as not to cause harm.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of folic acid have been studied extensively. The element takes part in many processes occurring in the body. Folic acid deficiency is detrimental to health, which proves the need for regular preventive measures.

To be happy, ladies need to love someone and do something - this secret has long been revealed. But why women need folic acid is an equally important question. What is the use of folic acid for women, in what products to find it, and others Interesting Facts read on.

Hi friends! Svetlana Morozova is with you. Today I tell you about one of the main women's vitamins - folic acid. Here you will find out what it is for and what it is in, what signs indicate a lack or excess, when and how to take it. Go!

Why do women need folic acid?

Folic acid, otherwise vitamin B9, is essential for the health of both men and women. It is involved in hematopoiesis, the synthesis of amino acids and hormones, the formation, metabolic processes, and reduces the risk of developing oncology.

However, folic acid is often referred to as the "female" vitamin. And that's why:

• Preservation of beauty and youth. B9 stimulates the renewal of skin cells, helps maintain its elasticity and tone, protects against, is needed to strengthen hair and nails, prevents baldness, the appearance of early gray hair and wrinkles.
• Prevention of fetal developmental defects. Folic acid is recommended for couples when planning, and then for the expectant mother when pregnancy occurs, especially in the first trimester. This vitamin protects the fetus from teratogenic factors (causing malformation of the fetus), reduces the risk of miscarriage, placental abruption, developmental delays and chromosomal abnormalities, pathologies of the nervous system, brain, spine, genitourinary system of the fetus, and anemia of the pregnant woman. And after childbirth, vitamin B9 stimulates milk production and increases its nutritional value.
• Prevention of cancer of the breast, cervix, intestines, stomach. This vitamin normalizes the absorption of nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract and excretion - all those factors that provoke female oncology.
• Help mature women after 45 years. When menopause approaches, women experience a lack of the hormone estrogen, so “hot flashes”, jumps begin blood pressure, increased sweating, palpitations. Women suffer from mood swings and appetite. The action of vitamin B9 is similar to estrogen, so it reduces the severity of menopausal syndrome.
• Maintenance Have a good mood and working capacity. Folic acid improves brain nutrition and normalizes the state of the nervous system. Women, due to their emotionality, are more prone to depression, less stress-resistant. Therefore, folic acid is often prescribed to normalize the emotional state, combat insomnia, absent-mindedness, and forgetfulness.

In addition, why folic acid is also needed, and men:

• Prevention of anemia;
• Normalization of digestion;
• Prevention of cardiovascular diseases and heart attack;
• Acceleration (which is important for losing weight or building muscle mass in bodybuilding)
• Treatment of migraines and nervous disorders;
• Prevention of macular degeneration (destruction of the retina with loss of vision).

How to understand that folic acid is deficient

Folic acid is a vitamin that is not synthesized by us in sufficient quantities for the body and must be supplied from outside. Therefore, most often a deficiency develops in people who eat little fresh vegetables or do not absorb protein well due to.

Another common cause is alcohol abuse, which disrupts the absorption of the vitamin. There may also be folic acid hypovitaminosis due to obesity or taking certain medications: aspirin, glucocorticoids, nitrofuran, antacids, contraceptives.

What symptoms may indicate a lack of vitamin B9:

• Inflammation of the tongue;
• Early gray hair;
• Diarrhea;
• Numbness of the limbs;
• Difficulty breathing;
• Frequent headache, migraine;
• Poor appetite, sudden weight loss;
• Delayed puberty in girls;
• Flaccid skin, early wrinkles;
• Skin rashes (acne, acne, psoriasis);
• Fatigue, poor memory, absent-mindedness;
• Insomnia;
• Irritability, aggressiveness, up to mania and phobias;
• miscarriages, inability to conceive, missed pregnancies;
• Early onset of menopause after 40 years, its severe course.

By the way, these same signs indicate an overdose from taking vitamin preparations. In children, in this case, there is increased excitability and digestive disorders.

Most often, these signs can be eliminated by eating enough folic acid with food.

Where to find vitamin B9

What foods contain folic acid:

• Beef and cod liver;
• kidneys;
• Pork and beef meat;
• Salmon;
• Eggs, especially the yolk;
• Dairy products (cottage cheese, cheese, kefir);
• Legumes (lentils, peas, beans);
• Yeast;
• Seeds;
• Nuts;
• Buckwheat;
• Vegetables (corn, cabbage, turnip, asparagus, lettuce, spinach, greens);
• Fruits (kiwi, bananas, pomegranate, grapefruit).

Not so long ago, they began to produce food products enriched with vitamin B9: breakfast cereals, flour, bread, cereal products. Australia was the first to prove that eating such food reduces the occurrence of congenital malformations of the fetus by 60%.

Every day, an adult body needs up to 400 mg of folic acid per day. Usually, a balanced diet can fill this need, but there are conditions in which vitamin B9 preparations are additionally prescribed.

Taking folic acid supplements

Why do women need folic acid - the following conditions serve as a direct indication for the appointment:

• Pregnancy, especially in the early stages - here the daily dosage increases to 600 mcg. Until what time is it most important to drink folic acid: up to 16 weeks for sure, but preferably throughout pregnancy and lactation, as well as for both spouses 3 months before pregnancy;
• Climax;
• Megaloblastic anemia;
• Avitaminosis;
• tropical diarrhea;
• Tuberculosis of the intestine;
• and intestines.

However, there may be contraindications:

• B12 deficiency anemia;
• Malabsorption (sucrose-isomaltase deficiency);
• Fructose intolerance (fructosemia);
• Allergy to vitamin B9.

Among side effects there may be fever, bronchospasm, skin rashes.

They may prescribe combined preparations (for example, with B12 - Foliber) or separately folic acid in tablets or capsules. In this case, the price can vary significantly - from 30 rubles to a thousand.

How to take vitamins, what is better to choose and how many tablets to drink per day - instructions for use are given by the doctor individually. Recommend taking vitamin B9 during or after meals, drinking plenty of water.

That, perhaps, is all about why women need folic acid.

Content

This component is needed by women of any age, including pregnant women. Folic acid is vitamin B9, which is important for the health of hair and nails, the maintenance of protective mechanisms, the regulation of metabolic processes and hematopoiesis. This element contains some products, but they are not always enough to ensure its daily intake. In this case, it is necessary to take folic acid in synthetic form. It is especially important for women to maintain the level of this vitamin, because it helps to stay beautiful for a long time and bear a healthy child.

What is folic acid for women

British physician Lucy Wheels found in 1932 that pregnant women with megaloblastic anemia improved by taking a crude extract of liver cells. From this moment began the history of folic acid:

1. Lucy Wheels concluded that the component that promoted the recovery of pregnant women with megaloblastic anemia was destroyed when the liver extract was purified.
2. It was identified and named the Wills factor.
3. A few years later, the substance was renamed vitamin M.
4. Still later, this factor was identified in spinach and parsley.
5. As a result, it was named Folic Acid (from Latin folium - leaf).

It is a water-soluble vitamin involved in the development of immune and circulatory systems. Its derivatives (di-, tri-, polyglutamates) together with it are combined into a group of substances - folates. Humans and animals obtain FA from food or through synthesis by the intestinal microflora. Most of The stock of this component is concentrated in the liver. Some women have a lack of vitamin B9, so they are shown to take this substance in the form of pharmaceutical preparations.

Compound

According to the chemical structure, vitamin B9 is pteroylglutamic acid, i.e. a compound built from L-glutamic and para-aminobenzoic acid and pteridine residues. Otherwise, it is also called folacin. The substance is highly soluble in alcohol solutions and limitedly in water. In the pharmacy, FC is represented by several types of tablets. In addition to vitamin B9, preparations may include the following auxiliary components:

• lactose;
• microcrystalline cellulose;
• potato starch;
• polyvinylpyrrolidone low molecular weight (povidone);
• magnesium stearate;
• lactose monohydrate;
• talc;
• sucrose;
• calcium stearate.

Why do women need

The benefits of folic acid for women are especially evident during pregnancy. On the early term this substance helps the neural tube of the embryo and other tissues to develop normally. With menopause, it improves overall well-being and reduces susceptibility to hormonal changes. Another acid is useful in case of failures menstrual cycle and planning for conception. Numerous studies confirm that it helps to get pregnant by improving fertility and normalizing the woman's body's response to estrogen.

There are many indications for the appointment of FC. The main one is pregnancy planning. In this case, the drug is prescribed to be taken at least 3 months before the intended conception. This is because this substance cannot accumulate in the body in significant quantities. Folic acid for pregnant and lactating women is useful for the following:

• reduces the risk of congenital malformations;
• reduces the likelihood of miscarriage at an early stage;
• reduces the risk of miscarriage, intrauterine fetal death, premature placental abruption;
• prevents gestosis;
• ensures the normal development of the neural tube and brain of the fetus;
• participates in the creation of nucleic acids that are necessary for the transmission of hereditary characteristics;
• improves the quality and composition of blood;
• provides an already born baby with normal immunity and bowel function, prevents a slowdown in psychomotor development;
• Prevention of postpartum depression.

In the body, FA is converted to tetrahydrofolate. It is part of many enzymes - proteins that catalyze reactions. Without folacin, protein metabolism cannot occur. In women, this substance plays a role similar to estrogen, and therefore it determines the correct development of the reproductive system. Folacin is an essential part of the process of dividing the DNA molecule. For this reason, the deficiency of this substance is especially dangerous for rapidly dividing cells, including malignant ones.

With a lack of folacin, a woman experiences irritability and apathy, since this vitamin is involved in the production of serotonin. FC is useful for the body and the following:

• improves memory;
• provides a slowdown in aging;
• prevents the formation of blood clots;
• helps in improving immunity;
• reduces the likelihood of breast cancer;
• provides a reduction in the risk of diseases of the cardiovascular system and malignant neoplasms, especially in older women;
• increases the resistance of the nervous system to stress;
• supports the normal synthesis of red blood cells, prevents the development of anemia;
• improves the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, fights bacteria and toxins in it.

Folacin is also called the beauty vitamin, because it favorably affects the appearance of a woman. It prevents the appearance of age spots and wrinkles, accelerates hair growth, strengthens nails. For women after 40-50 years, this component helps to reduce the negative manifestations of menopause: hot flashes, pressure surges, mood swings. In addition, vitamin B9 ensures the normal absorption of protein. In general, FC allows you to smooth out and even slow down the process of menopause.

Daily dose

Girls and women of different ages need a certain amount of this element. The body of an adult requires up to 300-400 mcg of FA per day. Depending on the age and condition of the woman, the daily dosage of folic acid varies as follows:

• after 40-50 years, it is recommended to increase the dose to 300-350 mcg;
• during pregnancy, the norm is 800-900 mcg;
• for prevention, it is worth taking 200 mcg;
• during lactation, it is recommended to use 500 mcg.

Deficiency symptoms

Up to 90% of vitamin B9 is destroyed by heat treatment of raw food. For this reason, this element is often lacking in the diet. In addition, it can be poorly absorbed in the intestines. Deficiency is also observed during pregnancy, when more folacin is required. Symptoms of this condition appear after 8-30 days, depending on the diet of the woman. Signs are always pronounced, and the most common of them are the following:

How to use

The main indication for the use of folacin is its deficiency. Choosing a specific medicine is based on the daily requirement, which is described above. Since there are many vitamin B9 preparations, the instructions for its use reflect only the daily dosage (no more than 1 μg) and the frequency of administration. It is not recommended to use any medication for a long time and uncontrolled, since FC reduces the concentration of vitamin B12 in the body. The list of general indications for its use includes the following pathologies:

• atherosclerosis (blockage blood vessels plaques);
• infertility;
• iron deficiency, drug, radiation anemia;
• aphthous stomatitis;
• viral hepatitis;
• osteochondrosis;
• tumor of the large intestine;
• spasm of the colon;
• epilepsy;
• gingivitis;
• periodontitis;
• tropical diarrhea;
• chronic inflammation and tuberculosis of the intestine.

During pregnancy

According to statistics, most couples have unplanned pregnancies. Few parents-to-be go through a full screening beforehand. A woman at an early stage of pregnancy may not even be aware of her situation, and in fact during this period the rudiments of the child's organs are already beginning to be laid, which is the basis for his future physiological and psychological development.

If at an early stage of fetal development there is a deficiency of folacin, there may be problems with both the health of the mother and the baby. Already in the second week of pregnancy, the child's brain begins to develop. Even a short-term deficiency of FC at this stage can threaten with irreparable consequences, such as:

• brain herniation;
• anencephaly;
• miscarriage;
• mental retardation;
• spina bifida in the fetus;
• anemia;
• cleft lip or cleft palate.

For this reason, vitamin B9 is prescribed from the moment of pregnancy. The prophylactic course lasts 12 weeks, i.e. the entire first trimester. Sometimes treatment is continued until childbirth. Folic acid intake during pregnancy is made in different dosages:

• 600-800 mcg - for the first trimester;
• 800 mcg - starting from 13 weeks;
• 4 mg - if there is a history of miscarriage with malformations or the birth of children with mental retardation and mental disorders, as well as while taking drugs that reduce the absorption of FA.

When planning a pregnancy

It is recommended to take folacin even at the stage of pregnancy planning. Gynecologists advise starting the prevention of the lack of this component 3-4 months before the moment when the conception of a child is expected. Doctors consider this period sufficient to make up for the deficiency, the daily dosage should be 400 micrograms. It is recommended not only for women, but also for men in order to increase sperm motility.

When breastfeeding

Folic acid during lactation is recommended at a dosage of 300-500 mcg daily. It is allowed to take it as part of a multivitamin complex. This is necessary for the prevention of vitamin B9 deficiency in both the mother and the child. Signs of a lack of this substance are eliminated after 3 months of admission, but the course is recommended to continue until the end of breastfeeding.

Folic acid for women over 40

The prophylactic dose of vitamin B9 for women over 40 is 300-350 mcg per day. Such an amount of folic acid will help to go through a period of hormonal changes without stress for the body. Tablets are recommended to be taken 2 hours before meals and half an hour after. This ensures the fastest absorption of folacin. After 40 years, it helps not only to reduce the manifestations of menopause, but also reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, diabetes, stroke.

With anemia

The main function of pteroylglutamic acid is the production of red blood cells and the synthesis of protein in hemoglobin, which contains iron. As a result, with a lack of vitamin B9, iron deficiency anemia develops. For the treatment of such a disease, it is prescribed to take up to 2-3 mg of folic acid daily. In order to prevent anemia, the daily dose is reduced to 1 mg. The average course of treatment lasts 60 days, maintenance therapy - 60-90 days.

For weight loss

Like other B vitamins, Folic Acid affects the state of the body as a whole, including metabolic processes. Folates help speed up metabolism and fat burning. Due to this, fat is actively broken down into simple alcohols and acids, which are then excreted from the body. The effectiveness of folate for weight loss is high only when combined with diet and physical activity. The body receives about 50 mcg of folic acid from food, so to reduce weight, you need to take an additional 150 mcg per day for 60 days.

Foods containing vitamin B9

A woman's body receives part of vitamin B9 from the usual foods. A significant amount of folate contains green plants, such as:

• salad;
• parsley;
• dill;
• spinach.

Animal products are also a source of vitamin B9. Every woman should include them in her diet. This is especially important when planning conception and already during pregnancy. These products include:

• milk;
• mutton;
• pork;
• liver;
• beef;
• hen;
• tuna fish;
• eggs.

Among fruits, folic acid is found in citrus fruits (oranges, tangerines, grapefruit), apricots, peaches, bananas, melons. Its high level is also observed in the following products:

• black beans, peas;
• avocado;
• walnuts;
• cabbage, beets, turnips;
• buckwheat, bran, wheat;
• wild rose;
• pumpkin;
• brewer's yeast;
• chicken giblets;
• trout, perch;
• mushrooms.

Vegetables are best consumed fresh in the form of salads. It is useful to add young nettles to them. Recommended juices are orange and tomato. It is better to lightly fry the liver or cook it for a short time so as not to destroy its beneficial trace elements. Folic acid in meat is more stable, and contained in plant foods is quickly destroyed, especially under the influence of sunlight and during heat treatment.

Products containing folic acid

This vitamin is available in preparations under different names. The most convenient dosage form is a tablet. Manufacturers offer drugs with different dosages of folic acid. The most popular preparations with vitamin B9 are the following:

• Folacin 5 mg;
• Apo-Folic 5 mg;
• Folio 0.4 mg;
• Materna 1 mg;
• Foliber 0.4 mg;
• Doppelgerz Active;
• Maltofer Fall 0.35 mg;
• Pregnavit 0.75 mg;
• Elevit 1 mg;
• Askofol 0.8 mg.

Pills

One of the common preparations with folacin (in the amount of 400 mcg) is Foliber. It belongs to the category of multivitamins because it additionally contains 2mcg of cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12). Auxiliary for the drug Foliber are the following substances:

• maltodextrin;
• lemon acid;
• trisodium citrate;
• magnesium stearate;
• lactose monohydrate;
• microcrystalline cellulose.

The only form of release of this drug is round or flat yellow tablets. The main indications for the use of Foliber are:

• prevention of deficiency of the active components contained in the preparation;
• pregnancy planning;
• first trimester of pregnancy.

Do not take Foliber with hypersensitivity to its composition, malabsorption of glucose and galactose, lactase deficiency. In the absence of such deviations, the daily dosage is 1 tablet. The recommended time of admission is before meals. In some patients, Foliber contributes to the development of allergies. The advantage of the drug is that cases of its overdose were not observed.

Another multivitamin complex with folacin is called Doppelherz Active Folic Acid (600 mcg). It additionally contains vitamins:

• E - 36 mg;
• C - 300 mg;
• B12 - 5 mcg;
• B6 - 6 mg.

The advantage of this drug is that it is available in special depot tablets. Due to the special shell, active substances are released slowly throughout the day. Indication for use - lack of substances that make up the complex, but not during pregnancy and lactation. The dosage is 1 tablet per day with meals. It is washed down with water and not chewed.

Maltofer, in addition to FC, includes 0.357 mg of iron (III) polymaltose hydroxide. The drug has an antianemic effect, therefore it is used for the treatment iron deficiency anemia or hidden iron deficiency, including in pregnant and lactating women. The dosage is 3 tablets every day for 3-5 months until the hemoglobin level becomes normal. Contraindications to taking Maltofer:

• excess iron in the blood;
• age up to 12 years;
• other types of anemia.

The advantage of Maltofer is that the probability of an overdose is extremely small. Among the side effects after taking the pill, the following symptoms are possible:

• bloating;
• indigestion;
• diarrhea;
• constipation;
• insomnia;
• bronchospasm;
• hives;
• eczema;
• convulsions;
• staining of feces in an uncharacteristic color.

Folic acid in ampoules

Vitamin B9 is also available in ampoules containing a solution for injection. They are made in a hospital with a pronounced deficiency in a woman of this element. Another area of ​​application is the treatment of weak hair prone to falling out. To do this, the solution is added to the shampoo or mixed with various ingredients and used in the form of masks. For 200 ml cosmetic product account for 1 ampoule. The mask is made according to the following recipe:

1. Mix 1 tbsp. l. honey with 50 ml olive oil.
2. add 1 ampoule of vitamin B9 and B6.
3. Beat, then apply evenly to the hair, wrap it with a film, and then with a towel.
4. After half an hour, rinse with warm water with shampoo or herbal decoctions.

Overdose

Toxic reactions are not observed if folacin is not taken at a dose exceeding 4-5 mg per day. If this norm is ignored, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract or the central nervous system may appear. In children with an overdose, there are signs of indigestion and increased excitability. For adults, the appearance of problems with sleep is typical.

Side effects

The main side effect of taking folacin is a hypersensitivity reaction. It can manifest itself in the form of the following conditions and symptoms:

• fever;
• erythema;
• bronchospasm;
• skin rashes;
• hyperthermia.

Price

The cost depends on the type of drug and its manufacturer. In addition, the composition of the drug also affects the price. Folacin is often a component of multivitamin complexes, which can cost more than drugs that are based only on FA. Examples of prices for the most common drugs are presented in the table:

Name of the drug	Dose of folacin, mcg	Number of tablets	Price for Moscow, rubles
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Content

To ensure stress-free hormonal adjustment and reduce the symptoms of menopause, women after 40 years of age need folic (pteroylglutamic) acid (vitamin B9). It is synthesized by the intestinal microflora or enters the body from the outside with food, drugs. Vitamin B9 plays an important role in maintaining immunity, hematopoiesis, regulation of metabolic processes, and prevention of certain diseases.

What is folic acid

This is a water-soluble vitamin belonging to group B. The human body does not produce a large number of folic acid, it mainly comes from food. With a balanced diet, this is enough for a normal metabolism. In some cases, a certain amount of vitamin B9 has to be taken additionally in a synthetic form.

The dosage recommended by doctors is 400 mcg / day. During hormonal changes (pregnancy, lactation, menopause), the daily dose increases to 500-600 mcg. To dial required amount vitamin, you need to eat the following foods (without heat treatment):

• greens: parsley, onion, spinach, lettuce;
• vegetables: cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, tomatoes, beets, carrots;
• citrus fruits: orange, lemon, mineola;
• fruits; strawberry, currant apricot, pear, papaya.
• whole grains: rye, wheat, buckwheat;
• nuts, seeds: almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, sesame, flax, sunflower seeds;
• legumes: lentils, beans, beans;
• animal products: cheese, liver, beef, eggs, caviar, cottage cheese.

Composition and form of release

The chemical name for B9 is 2-Amino-1,4-dihydro-4-oxo-6-pteridinyl. Its molecule consists of a pteridine core, residues of n-aminobenzoic and L-glutamic acids. The vitamin is available as a powder, solution or tablets. Preparations in capsules are sold at 10.50, 60 pieces. They are packed in blisters or plastic jars with lids. Vitamin B9 is produced by many pharmaceutical companies in the world. On the Russian market, you can find drugs of their own production, as well as from Italy, Croatia, Ukraine, the Republic of Belarus, Hungary.

Tablets are pale yellow or yellow in color, flat-cylindrical round shape. Pteroylglutamic acid consists of the following components:

pharmachologic effect

After entering the body, folic acid is converted into tetrahydrofolate (tetrahydrofolic acid), which stimulates erythropoiesis (hematopoiesis), promotes the synthesis of red blood cells, participates in the synthesis of amino acids and other metabolic processes. After oral administration, vitamin B9 is completely absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The maximum concentration of the active substance is reached in the blood plasma after 30-60 minutes. After 5 hours, it is excreted by the kidneys unchanged (at a high dosage) or in the form of metabolites (if the dose was up to 5 mg).

Benefits of folic acid for women over 40

When a woman begins hormonal changes in the body, this affects the condition of the skin, hair, nails. Additional intake of drugs with vitamin B9 will help control these processes, stopping the formation of wrinkles, and slow down the onset of menopause. In that age period the woman's body begins a gradual restructuring, which is accompanied by unpleasant symptoms:

• increase in the intervals between menstruation;
• pain during sex, which is explained by dryness of the vaginal mucosa;
• headaches accompanied by hot flashes;
• violation of psycho-emotional balance.

The lack of the required amount of vitamin B9 in the body of a woman after 40 years not only increases all of the above symptoms, but also causes premature skin aging, anemia, baldness, excessive sweating, and excessive body fat. Without it, the full-fledged work of the cardiovascular, endocrine, nervous systems, and the gastrointestinal tract is impossible.

With menopause

Menopause occurs in women different ages(from 45 to 56 years). It is characterized by a decrease in the production of estrogen, which is responsible for the state of the reproductive system. The lack of a hormone during menopause causes the following symptoms in a woman:

• Hot flashes to the head, sometimes accompanied by nausea, dizziness, pressure surges. This occurs against the background of changes in parts of the brain such as the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
• The thyroid gland begins to secrete a large amount of thyroxine, a hormone that provokes heart problems. Against this background, the woman constantly has shortness of breath, palpitations, bad dream. There is a feeling of increased anxiety about the state of one's health.
• Estrogen is secreted by the adrenal cortex. With menopause, malfunctions in the functioning of this organ occur, which is accompanied by severe pain in the kidney area.

Folic acid in menopause helps to normalize the general well-being of a woman, eliminate all symptoms. Due to the pharmacological action of vitamin B9 on a woman's body, taking preparations containing it will normalize the functioning of the cardiovascular system, reduce the intensity of headaches, and balance the hormonal background.

After 50 years

Folic acid is especially needed during menopause, which usually occurs at the age of 50-55 years. Menopause is a collective concept, which implies the gradual extinction of reproductive, childbearing and sexual functions in women. The climacteric period can last more than 10 years. Menopause is already a period of complete absence of menstruation for 1 year.

Vitamin B9 is essential for a woman at this time. Its additional intake normalizes the activity of the organs of the reproductive system, reduces the likelihood of malignant neoplasms. Regular use of pteroylglutamic acid is an excellent prevention of heart attacks and strokes. Against the background of taking the vitamin, skin rashes, itching, dryness of the skin, the condition of the hair improves, the acidity of the gastrointestinal tract normalizes.

Instructions for use

The trade name for pteroylglutamic acid is Folacin. For medical purposes, the vitamin is synthesized artificially. Tablets and capsules are taken for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. Folacin in ampoules is often used for cosmetic procedures. The average duration of the course of treatment with the drug is 60 days. The duration of therapy for women after 40 years is determined by the doctor and can range from 1 to 4 months.

Indications

Folacin is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of vitamin B9 deficiency. For women after 40 years of age, it is prescribed for the following conditions:

• dysfunction of the thyroid gland;
• anemia;
• metabolic disease;
• obesity;
• prevention of diabetes mellitus, myocardial infarction, oncology;
• reduction in symptoms menopause and menopause.

Method of application and dosage

Folacin is indicated for oral administration. Tablets, capsules, powder are consumed, regardless of the meal. The prophylactic dosage for women is 1 mg/day. Depending on the severity of symptoms, for therapeutic purposes, vitamins can be prescribed at a dosage of up to 5 mg / day. The regimen and duration of the course is determined by the doctor individually for each case. On average, folic therapy lasts 20-30 days.

drug interaction

The use of pteroylglutamic acid reduces the plasma level of barbiturates: phenobarbital, primidone or phenytoin, which can provoke an epileptic seizure. Simultaneous reception of Folacin reduces the effectiveness of ethanol (alcohol) and oral contraceptives. A decrease in the bioavailability of vitamin B9 is observed when used together with substances such as:

• anticonvulsants;
• analgesic medicines;
• antibiotics;
• cytostatics;
• antacids.

special instructions

Hemodialysis promotes excessive excretion of pteroylglutamic acid from the body, so patients who cleanse the kidneys using this method need increased amounts of vitamin B9. With prolonged use of Folacin, a deficiency of cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) is possible. In this case, their combined use is recommended.

Side effects and overdose

Medical practice knows cases of overdose with Folacin. The danger of excessive use of vitamin B9 is a violation of the excretory function of the kidneys, increased excitability of the central nervous system, the occurrence of convulsive seizures resembling epileptic ones. Possible side effects from folic therapy:

• intestinal disorders;
• bitterness in the mouth;
• bloating;
• erythema (reddening of the skin);
• bronchospasm;
• anorexia.

Folic acid analogues for women after 40

If Folacin is not available for any reason in the near future, then it can be replaced with medicines that are similar in indication and pharmacological action. Before buying, it is recommended to carefully study the annotation for comparison with the prescribed medicine. Common analogues of Folacin include drugs:

• Mamifol;
• Askofol;
• calcium folinate;
• Tifol;
• Vitrum folicum.

Price

You can buy the drug at any pharmacy or online store. The cost varies, depending on the manufacturer, location and marketing policy of the outlet. average price on medicines with folic acid and its containing.

Folic acid (vitamin B9) - belongs to the group of water-soluble vitamins that enter the body from the outside, with drugs or food. It plays an important role in the regulation of all metabolic processes, hematopoiesis, maintaining immunity, and preventing a number of diseases.

Folic acid is needed for both men and women; The recommended intake for adults is 200 micrograms per day. But women should pay special attention to the sufficient level of vitamin B9 in the body.

Why is folic acid given to women?

There are certain indications for taking vitamin B9 in increased doses. Folic acid for women is needed, as reviews show, primarily during the preparation and planning of pregnancy. The drug should be taken at least three months before the expected conception date, since folic acid in a woman's body cannot accumulate in significant quantities. Folates are excreted with metabolic products, and it is necessary to maintain their concentration at the proper level.

This compound plays a huge role in the early stages of pregnancy due to its participation in DNA synthesis. important for the formation of the neural tube of the fetus in the first month of intrauterine development, and in the future - for the normal growth of all its organs and tissues. Thus, folic acid is necessary for the health of both the woman and the unborn child. Assign the drug to pregnant women in dosages from 400 to 800 mcg per day. Special complexes for pregnant women - vitamins for women with folic acid fully cover the need of expectant mothers for this compound.

Taking preparations containing vitamin B9 should not only be while waiting for the birth of a child. Folic acid has a number of beneficial properties for women:

• Immunity improvement - increase defensive forces body, prevention of viral and infectious diseases.
• Reducing the risk of diseases of the cardiovascular system, the development of thrombosis.
• Increasing the resistance of the nervous system to stress, preventing migraines.
• Prevention of the development of anemia, support for the synthesis of red blood cells in sufficient volume.
• Reducing the risk of developing malignant neoplasms.
• Improving the activity of the gastrointestinal tract.

The benefits of folic acid for women also lie in a positive effect on appearance: vitamin B9 protects the skin from age spots and premature wrinkles, strengthens the nail plate, accelerates hair growth and prevents hair loss. The daily requirement of folic acid for women is 0.2 mg.

Vitamin B9 refers to water-soluble compounds, therefore, as a rule, it is not necessary to talk about its excess in the body. But it should be taken into account that the harm of folic acid for women can be expressed in the fact that an excess of folate can hide a vitamin B12 deficiency, as well as lead to digestive disorders and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

At age-related changes in the female body, vitamin B9 plays a role. After 40 years, hormonal changes begin, associated with a gradual attenuation of the reproductive function and a change in the level of hormones in the body. Folic acid helps women over 40 to smooth out the symptoms of approaching menopause, maintain youthful skin, and prevent hair loss. During this period, vitamin B9 normalizes the activity of the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

Folic acid is equally important for the health of women after 50 years. It helps to reduce the negative manifestations of menopause in the body, both on a physical and mental level. For older women, it is also important that vitamin B9 is involved in the production of red blood cells, which provide oxygen to all body tissues. Folic acid has a positive effect on the digestive processes in women over 50, it helps the normal absorption of all nutrients. In turn, the lack of folic acid in older women may be associated with difficulty digesting protein foods.

How to take folic acid for women

Vitamin B9 is found in a number of plant and animal foods. In significant quantities, it is found in green leaves of plants - lettuce, onions, spinach, parsley, dill. In addition, vitamin B9 can enter the body with fresh vegetables - tomatoes, beets, carrots, legumes. Contains folate in cereals, nuts, bananas, pumpkin.

From animal products as a source of folic acid, it is worth noting eggs, cheese, milk, liver, beef, chicken, tuna fish.

However, not always the products included in the daily diet can meet the needs of the female body for folic acid. As already mentioned, this is especially important for expectant mothers. They should definitely take vitamin B9 in addition in the form of tablets or capsules. indicates the daily dose for women in this case from 0.4 to 0.8 mg. During menopause, the recommended dose of the vitamin is 0.3 mg per day. This allows you to reduce the negative manifestations of hormonal changes. In order to prevent diseases and maintain the health of the body, it is necessary to ensure that the body receives about 0.2 mg of vitamin per day.

The procedure for taking folic acid depends on the dosage of the drug. As a rule, it should be taken 30 minutes after a meal, 1-3 times a day, one tablet or capsule.