Folic Acid

USE: Folic acid is a form of the water-soluble vitamin B9. It is vital for red blood cells and for many other cells in the body. The form of folic acid occurring naturally in food is called ‘folate’. 
Folate along with othe B vitamins is vital for nerve function. It is essential for the formation of DNA (genetic material) within every body cell. This allows normal replication of cells. Most of the required folate in men and non-pregnant women are obtained from a healthy and well-balanced diet. Pregnant and breast feeding women and children during their growing years require folate in their diet. In pregnant women, for example, lack of folate in diet can lead to severe nerve defects like neural tube defects, spina bifida, anencephaly etc. in their unborn children. Folate also enhances energy and stamina. 
SOURCE: Great sources of Folate are green leafy vegetables, liver, legumes, seeds, enriched breads, cereals, rice and pasta.