Definition

Noun: A B vitamin (B9) that is essential for cell growth and reproduction. It is a crucial nutrient for DNA synthesis and repair, and is particularly important during periods of rapid cell division and growth, such as pregnancy and fetal development.

Usage

"Folic acid" is used as a non-count noun. It refers specifically to the synthetic form of this vitamin used in dietary supplements and fortified foods. The natural form found in foods is often called "folate." - It is commonly discussed in contexts of nutrition, prenatal health, and medicine. - It is typically preceded by determiners like "some," "any," or "no," or used with verbs like "contain," "take," or "recommend."

Examples

• General Statement:

  • Many breakfast cereals are fortified with folic acid.
  • A deficiency in folic acid can lead to certain types of anemia.

• Medical/Nutritional Advice:

  • Doctors recommend that women take folic acid before and during early pregnancy.
  • This supplement provides 400 mcg of folic acid.

Advanced Usage

• "Folic acid supplementation": The act of adding folic acid to one's diet, often through pills.
  • Folic acid supplementation is a standard public health measure to prevent neural tube defects.

Variants and Related Words

• Folate (noun): The general term for the various forms of vitamin B9 found naturally in foods like leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, and beans.
  • Spinach is a good source of natural folate.
• Vitamin B9: Another name for this group of vitamins, encompassing both folate and folic acid.

Synonyms

• Pteroylmonoglutamic acid: The technical chemical name for the synthetic compound folic acid.
• Vitamin M (historical/obsolete): An early name for folate/folic acid.

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Folic acid deficiency: A medical condition resulting from insufficient intake or absorption of the vitamin.
  • The patient was diagnosed with folic acid deficiency.
• Neural tube defects: A group of serious birth defects that adequate folic acid intake helps prevent.
  • Taking folic acid can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida.

Noun

1. a B vitamin that is essential for cell growth and reproduction