folate

Folate is the generic term for a water-soluble B vitamin (vitamin B9) that is naturally present in many foods and available as a dietary supplement. It plays an essential role as a cofactor in one-carbon transfer reactions required for DNA and RNA synthesis, amino acid metabolism (including homocysteine to methionine conversion), and cell division. Folate is crucial for red blood cell formation and healthy cell growth and function. It is especially important during periods of rapid growth such as pregnancy and fetal development to prevent neural tube defects. The synthetic form of this vitamin used in supplements and food fortification is called folic acid; once ingested, it must be converted by the body into active forms of folate[1][2][4][7].

Brand names

FA-8FA8FA 8Folacin-800Folacin800Folacin 800FaLessaFolvite

Other names

vitamin B9pteroylglutamic acidfolacin5-methyltetrahydrofolatetetrahydrofolic acid