Vitamin B9

Sources of Vitamin B9

Natural Sources

Leafy green vegetables (e.g., spinach, broccoli), fruits (like oranges and bananas), legumes, and liver.

Fortified Foods

Many breakfast cereals, bread, and other grain products are fortified with folic acid, a synthetic form of folate.

Dietary Supplements

Often used to ensure adequate intake, especially in pregnant women.

Functions of Vitamin B9

Cell Growth and Division: Crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, supporting rapid cell division and growth.

Red Blood Cell Formation: Aids in the production of healthy red blood cells, preventing anemia.

Fetal Development: Essential for the proper development of the neural tube in fetuses, reducing the risk of neural tube defects.

Effects of Vitamin B9 Deficiency

Megaloblastic Anemia: Characterized by large, immature red blood cells, leading to reduced oxygen transport.

Birth Defects: In pregnant women, deficiency can lead to neural tube defects in the baby.

Elevated Homocysteine Levels: Linked with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for Vitamin B9

Adults

400 micrograms per day.

Pregnant Women

600 micrograms per day.

Lactating Women

500 micrograms per day.

Properties of Vitamin B9

Chemical Nature

Exists in various forms, with folic acid being the synthetic version used in supplements and food fortification.

Stability

Sensitive to heat, light, and high pH levels; cooking and food processing can reduce folate content.

Bioavailability

Natural folate in foods is less bioavailable than the synthetic folic acid in supplements and fortified foods.

Example Exam Questions and Answers

1. What are the primary functions of Vitamin B9 in the body?

Vitamin B9 is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, red blood cell formation, and fetal development.

2. Describe the effects of Vitamin B9 deficiency.

Deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, increased risk of heart disease due to elevated homocysteine levels, and in pregnant women, can cause neural tube defects in the baby.

3. What are the sources and recommended daily allowance of Vitamin B9?

Vitamin B9 is found in leafy greens, fruits, legumes, liver, fortified foods, and dietary supplements. The RDA for adults is 400 micrograms per day, with increased needs during pregnancy and lactation.