Folic Acid

A vitamin of the B complex group able to be dissolved in water. It is needed for cell growth and reproduction. It functions with vitamins B12 and C in the breakdown of proteins and in the making of haemoglobin. Folic acid also increases the appetite and causes the making of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. The vitamin is stored in the liver and may be made by bacteria in the stomach and intestines. Lack of folic acid results in poor growth, gray hair, mouth and tongue swelling, and diarrhea. Need for folic acid is increased in pregnancy, infancy, and by stress. Rich food sources include spinach and other green leafy vegetables, liver, kidneys, and whole-grain cereals.