Tag: Folic acid malabsorption

Hereditary Folate Malabsorption (HFM) is a rare genetic disorder, with only about 60 cases reported worldwide, that prevents the body from properly absorbing and transporting folate. This inherited condition manifests early in life and is distinctly different from folate deficiency caused by a poor diet.

Research suggests that up to 60% of the population may carry a common gene variant that affects how they process folic acid, the synthetic form of vitamin B9. This compromised metabolic process is one key reason certain individuals can't digest folic acid properly, leading to potential health issues.

According to MedlinePlus, a rare genetic disorder known as hereditary folate malabsorption can severely interfere with the body's ability to absorb vital B vitamins, including folic acid. When your body cannot absorb folic acid properly, the resulting deficiency disrupts fundamental biological processes essential for health, growth, and development.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 25% of Hispanic people and 10% of white people have a genetic mutation that affects their body's ability to process folic acid. If your body can't process folic acid effectively, it can lead to health complications, but there are management strategies available.

According to the CDC, mandatory fortification of grains with folic acid has significantly reduced the prevalence of folate deficiency in many countries. However, for individuals with malabsorption disorders, this is not enough, and targeted treatments are essential to address the root cause and correct the resulting deficiency. These treatments primarily focus on bypassing the compromised digestive system to ensure adequate nutrient levels are achieved, and can also include treating the underlying causes.