What is folacin and why is it important ?
A. Folacin, folic acid, and folate, are different names for an essential B vitamin. The name comes from the same root as foliage because it is plentiful in the leaves of plants. It is required by the body for DNA metabolism and plays an important role in genetic functions such as cell division and tissue growth. Folacin is also involved in the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells. A lack of folacin during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage and birth defects such as spina bifida (exposed spinal cord). Foods that are high in folacin include dark-green leafy vegetables, liver, kidneys, fruits, and beans and peas. However, since folacin is easily destroyed by oxidation, the vitamin may be lost by overcooking or processing of foods. Except in prescribed pre-natal vitamins, taking large amounts of folic acid in supplement form is not advised because it can mask the symptoms of a serious vitamin B-12 deficiency.
