Anaemia is a condition that has affected more than 60% of children in India. To combat this problem of iron and folate deficiency in kids, now the Indian Government has started a weekly iron and folic acid supplement distribution program. Yet, the number of women who suffer from this deficiency and its repercussions is even higher.
Importance of Iron and Folic Acid For Our Body:
Iron and folic acid are two of the most important nutrients that our body requires to function properly. Let’s have a look at them in detail:
Iron:
Iron is a mineral required by our body to form Red Blood Cells (RBCs) and to help the RBCs in transporting oxygen throughout the body. According to the U.S. FDA, the Daily Value (DV) of iron required by our body is 18 mg. Foods that are rich in iron are red meat, green leafy vegetables, sunflower seeds, lentils, beans, eggs, cashews, dry fruits and wheat.
Folic Acid:
Folic acid is a water-soluble B vitamin, specifically Vitamin B9. It occurs naturally in the form of folate in green leafy vegetables, pulses, and many fruits. Our body needs it for cell division. Apart from that it is also essential for forming DNA. According to the U.S. FDA, the minimal daily requirement of folic acid by our body is 400 micrograms. Good sources of folic acid are green leafy vegetables, oranges, pulses, citrus fruits, peas, beans, etc.
How Do Iron And Folic Acid Help?
Both iron and folic acid play an important role in the proper functioning of our body. Let’s read to know about it in detail:
1. Prevents And Cures Anaemia:
Anaemia is an extremely common problem now, affecting all, starting from the kids to the elderly people. Women are especially prone to becoming anaemic because they tend to ignore their own diet and health issues.
If you feel tired all the time and look pale and feel dizzy often, you should get yourself checked for anaemia. Other symptoms include difficulty in breathing, pain in the chest, headaches and palpitations. Both iron and folic acid not only prevent, but also cure anaemia. As you already know, iron is needed for the formation of red blood cells. Similarly, folate also helps Vitamin B12 in the formation of RBCs. Make sure to take your required daily intake of iron and folic acid to get enough blood pumping through your veins.
2. Helps During Pregnancy:
Women who are trying to conceive, or women who are already pregnant, are prescribed iron and folic acid supplements for an easy and successful pregnancy. Both the iron and folic acid are important for the health of the foetus.
Folic acid reduces the risk of many birth defects and congenital malformations like cleft palate in the baby. Women who suffer from folic acid deficiency acid are also more prone to having a baby with neural defects like spina bifida. Lack of proper blood circulation during pregnancy can lead to many problems like premature delivery, underweight baby, and even a stillborn child. Since pregnant women need more blood, iron becomes essential for them.
3. Helps During Menstruation:
Some women lose a lot of blood during these days. If you experience heavy flow during periods and feel more exhausted, then the reason might be the deficiency of iron and folic acid. Taking foods rich in iron and folic acid will help improve the condition. You can consult with your doctor if you need supplements.
4. Keeps Your Heart Healthy:
Folic acid lowers the levels of homocysteine in our body, thus reducing the risk of heart diseases. Moreover, intake of folic acid during pregnancy reduces the risk of heart problems in the baby.
5. Reduces The Risk Of Colon Cancer:
Iron and folic acid reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and prostate cancer. Though they might not be helpful in treating the disease, they certainly help in preventing them. Further, studies show that iron and folic acid derived from the natural sources are more beneficial for the health of the colon, rectum and prostate than artificial supplements.
6. Improves Fertility:
Folic acid is essential for fertility in both men and women. Women are advised to take iron and folic acid supplements while trying to conceive.
7. Keeps Your Brain Happy:
Iron and folic acid are known to prevent depression, Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive issues. They help in enhancing the cognitive functions of the brain. In fact, both iron and folic acid are considered two of the essential nutrients for our brain.
These are the many benefits of iron and folic acid. Try to get your required amount of these essential nutrients, primarily through your food. But, if you do develop a deficiency or need more of these, it is important to first consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
Do you intake Iron folic acid tablets? Taking excessive amounts of folic acid can lead to many side effects. So, take only prescribed doses. Also, tea and coffee interfere with the absorption of iron. Make sure to maintain a sufficient gap between the two.
Hope the information is helpful. Leave us your feedback in the comments section below.