Your Shopping Cart is empty.

${{ (item.variation.media ? item.variation.media.alt_translations : item.product.cover_media.alt_translations) | translateModel }}$ ${{ (item.variation.media ? item.variation.media.alt_translations : item.product.cover_media.alt_translations) | translateModel }}$

{{ childProduct.title_translations | translateModel }}

{{ getChildVariationShorthand(childProduct.child_variation) }}

{{ getSelectedItemDetail(selectedChildProduct, item).childProductName }} x {{ selectedChildProduct.quantity || 1 }}

{{ getSelectedItemDetail(selectedChildProduct, item).childVariationName }}

{{item.quantity}}x NT$0 {{ item.unit_point }} Point

Remove

${{addonItem.product.cover_media.alt_translations | translateModel}}$

{{addonItem.quantity}}x {{ mainConfig.merchantData.base_currency.alternate_symbol + "0" }}

Remove

Folic Acid and Health: Pregnancy, DNA, and Mood

Introduction

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is a critical micronutrient involved in cell division, DNA synthesis, and neurotransmitter production. While it is best known for its role in pregnancy, folic acid supports a wide range of physiological functions across all life stages.

Folic Acid and Pregnancy

Folic acid is essential during the early stages of pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs) such as spina bifida. Health authorities worldwide recommend women of reproductive age consume 400–600 mcg of folic acid daily—especially before conception and during the first trimester.

DNA Synthesis and Methylation

Folic acid is vital for DNA and RNA synthesis, especially in rapidly dividing cells. It also plays a key role in methylation reactions, which regulate gene expression and support detoxification processes. Deficiency in folate can impair cell replication and increase homocysteine levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Mental Health and Mood Regulation

Emerging evidence links folate levels to mood and cognitive health. Vitamin B9 participates in the production of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Low folate status has been associated with depressive symptoms, and supplementation may enhance antidepressant response in some individuals.

Natural vs. Synthetic Folate

Folic acid: The synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods. Highly bioavailable but must be metabolized by the liver.
Folate: The natural form found in leafy greens, legumes, and citrus fruits. Some individuals may benefit from methylated folate (5-MTHF) if they have MTHFR polymorphisms.

Conclusion

Folic acid is a cornerstone of human development, genetic stability, and emotional well-being. Ensuring adequate intake—through both diet and supplementation—supports optimal health, particularly for women in childbearing years and individuals under chronic stress or with genetic predispositions.

References

Greenberg JA, et al. "Folic acid supplementation and pregnancy: Clinical guidelines." Am Fam Physician. 2021.
Coppen A, et al. "Folate deficiency and depression." Br J Psychiatry. 2000.
Crider KS, et al. "Folate and DNA methylation: A review of molecular mechanisms." Nutrition Reviews. 2012.