[Back to Vitamins & Minerals][Thiamine-B1][Riboflavin-B2][Niacin-B3][Vitamin B6] [Vitamin B12][Biotin][Pantothenic Acid] [Vitamin C]

Major dietary sources of folate include green leafy vegetables, organ meats, meat, poultry, seafood, legumes (dried beans), seeds, and whole grain breads and cereals. Folate requirements are increased during pregnancy. Folate is sensitive to heat, oxygen and ultraviolet light.

Major Body Functions:

>Important in the synthesis of DNA
>Acts with vitamin B12 in the formation of red blood cells

Deficiency Symptoms:

>Pernicious anemia (large cell type)
>Depression

Excessive Intake and Toxicity Symptoms:

>May mask symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency