Folate or Folic Acid?

Again, another article that explains well on what is Falate and Folic Acid.

Thanks to Nutritional Immunology, I know the differences well.

Multiple evidence shows the fact that folic acid increases the risk of getting lung cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer.

http://chriskresser.com/folate-vs-folic-acid

What’s the difference between folate and folic acid?

Folate is a general term for a group of water soluble b-vitamins, and is also known as B9. Folic acid refers to the oxidized synthetic compound used in dietary supplements and food fortification, whereas folate refers to the various tetrahydrofolate derivatives naturally found in food. (1)

The form of folate that can enter the main folate metabolic cycle is tetrahydrofolate (THF). (2) Unlike natural folates, which are metabolized to THF in the mucosa of the small intestine, folic acid undergoes initial reduction and methylation in the liver, where conversion to the THF form requires dihydrofolate reductase. The low activity of this enzyme in the human liver, combined with a high intake of folic acid, may result in unnatural levels of unmetabolized folic acid entering the systemic circulation.

Risks associated with excessive folic acid intake

While the incidence of NTDs in the United States been significantly reduced since folic acid fortification began, there has been concern about the safety of chronic intake of high levels of folic acid from fortified foods, beverages and dietary supplements. (5) One of the major risks associated with excessive intake of folic acid is the development of cancer. (6) In patients with ischemic heart disease in Norway, where there is no folic acid fortification of foods, treatment with folic acid plus vitamin B12 was associated with increased cancer outcomes and all-cause mortality. In the United States, Canada, and Chile, the institution of a folic acid supplementation program was associated with an increased prevalence of colon cancer. (7, 8) A randomized control trial found that that daily supplementation with 1 mg of folic acid was associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. (9)

Researchers have hypothesized that the excessive consumption of folic acid in fortified foods may be directly related to the increase in cancer rates. Excess folic acid may stimulate the growth of established neoplasms, which can eventually lead to cancer. 

Key message - taking excessive folate (coming from wholesome fruits and vegetables) doesn't cause any side effects. However, excessive folic acid (aka B9) leads to the risk of getting cancer.


Do you know that in our diet, we are often taking a lot of folic acid due to the fortification done in our processed food?

Have a look at the cereals that we take on day to day.

 Can you see once again between natural vs man-made? Wholesome food is the way to go.

Which do you prefer the most?

Which is more natural?


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Cheers
Siew Choon
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