Tag: Natural folate sources

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sufficient folic acid intake can prevent some serious birth defects of the brain and spine. But how does folic acid improve health in other ways for people of all ages, supporting everything from heart function to mental health?

According to the CDC, folic acid fortification of grains has been highly effective in reducing the incidence of neural tube defects since the practice was mandated in the US in 1998. This process involves adding synthetic folic acid to common foods to help people get enough of this essential B vitamin. So, what food has folic acid infused and how can you ensure you are getting enough?

Millions of women may become pregnant each year, and they require 400 mcg of folic acid daily. This essential B vitamin is not naturally found in foods. Instead, the naturally occurring form is folate.

Over 50% of the naturally occurring folate in food is absorbed by the body, a stark contrast to the higher absorption rate of its synthetic counterpart, folic acid. But what is folate, not folic acid, and why is this distinction so important for your health?

Over 50% of the natural folate found in food sources is absorbed by the body. If you are looking for what can I eat instead of taking folic acid, the answer lies in shifting your diet toward a wide variety of whole foods that are naturally abundant in the vitamin's organic form, known as folate.

According to the National Institutes of Health, beef liver contains one of the highest concentrations of naturally occurring folate, with a 3-ounce serving providing over half of the recommended daily value. This vital nutrient, also known as vitamin B9, is crucial for cell growth and DNA synthesis. However, many other plant-based foods and fortified grains can also significantly contribute to your daily intake, especially when considering the important distinction between natural folate and its synthetic form, folic acid.

While folic acid fortification has been a successful public health measure to prevent neural tube defects, many people are interested in learning how to replace folic acid with natural, food-based sources. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how to increase your folate intake through diet, explore alternative supplements, and understand the best approach for your individual health needs.