Folates: An Introduction

Folate is a naturally occurring essential nutrient which is vital for DNA replication and a necessary substrate in various enzymatic reactions which are involved in synthesis of amino acids and vitamin metabolism. The synthetic and oxidized form of folate is folic acid, it is mainly incorporated into fortified foods and dietary supplements for preventive measures against folate deficiency. Folate deficiency has been linked with several abnormalities in both mother (anemia, peripheral neuropathy) and fetus (congenital abnormalities). Folic acid supplementation taken around the time of conception has been known to alleviate the risk of neural tube defects in the off springs. Optimal intake and absorption of folates is required for the maintenance of the human body’s normal functioning and keeping the genomic integrity intact.