Folic acid is essential for the healthy division of cells and the utilisation of sugar and amino acids (used to make protein) in food, but is easily destroyed by heat and even by storage for long periods at room temperature. It can help boost appetite during convalescence from surgery or sickness, plays a role in the production of red blood cells, promotes healthy skin and hair, keeps the nervous system balanced and lowers levels of homocysteine, a by-product of the metabolism of protein. Folic is very important in pregnancy as it helps to regulate embryonic and foetal nerve cell formation which is vital for normal development.
Signs of folic acid deficiency: Anaemia, digestive disorders, fatigue, skin problems.
