The functions of folic acid in our diet are mostly for prevention. Probably the most commonly known function of folic acid is in the prevention of neural tube diseases. Research has shown that the increased intake of folic acid can decrease the risk for such birth defects as spina bifida, which affects the fetus's brain and spine. With an increased intake of folic acid by the mother, it is estimated the 70% of some types of serious birth defects can be prevented.

The recommended daily allowance of folic acid is .4 mg per day. Anyone who follows the recommended daily food pyramid that includes 3-5 servings of vegetables, 2-4 serv

As indicated above, folic acid can be found naturally in many common foods. Dark leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach, as well as asparagus, some nuts and seeds, dried beans, wheat germ, yeast, egg yolk, most berries, and some other fruits and fruit juices are all natural sources of folic acid.

Other than neural tube defects, it has been discovered that a folate deficiency can, in part, contribute to the onset of chronic fatigue syndrome. Other ailments associated with folate deficiencies include an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Research also suggests that low folate levels are linked to an increased risk for heart and cardiovascular diseases as well strokes. It is also speculated that women that have increased intakes of folic acid have decreased their risk for developing colon cancer by as high as 75 %. In light of these findings, scientific support of folic acid is divided.

ings of fruit and 6-11 servings of grains daily will eas

Some common words found in the essay are:
Public Health, ACID Folic, folic acid, found naturally, found naturally common, naturally common foods, obvious folic acid, increased intake folic, folic acid found, birth defects, intakes folic, acid found, increased intake, naturally common, recommended daily, intake folic, common foods,
Approximate Word count = 660
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)