One of the main functions of the blood is that it allows red blood cells to transport oxygen to tissues throughout the body. Disorders that affect the red blood cells, such as sickle cell anemia, can cause problems throughout the body. People with sickle cell anemia may need to take supplements of certain vitamins, including folic acid.
Sickle Cell Anemia
Sickle cell anemia is caused by a genetic mutation in a protein known as hemoglobin S, which is needed to allow red blood cells to carry oxygen. People with this genetic problem have a protein that causes red blood cells to form an abnormal sickle-like shape, especially when the red blood cells are in fluids with little oxygen, MedLine Plus reports. This can cause the red blood cells to become lodged in small blood vessels and makes them more easily destroyed, resulting in a chronic deficiency in red blood cells.
Folic Acid
Folic acid, which is one of the B-complex vitamins, is important for allowing the body to make new cells. It is especially important in situations in which the body is rapidly making new cells as it is needed for the formation of DNA and RNA, which are two important types of genetic molecules which are needed to make new cells. Deficiencies in folic acid can impair the manufacture of new red blood cells, the Office of Dietary Supplements explains.
Folic Acid and Sickle Cell Anemia
People who have sickle cell anemia typically have increased needs for folic acid, "US News and World Report" explains. One of the consequences of sickle cell anemia is that the abnormally shaped red blood cells are broken down more quickly, which forces the body to make new red blood cells more frequently. In order to do this, larger amounts of folic acid are needed, so people with sickle cell anemia may need to increase their folic acid intake.
Folic Acid Sources and Dosage
Many foods contain folic acid. Many breakfast cereals are fortified with folic acid, the Office of Dietary Supplements notes. Folic acid can also be found in beef liver, beans, legumes and green leafy vegetables such as spinach, broccoli and asparagus. If you are having trouble getting enough folic acid in your diet, you may need to take folic acid supplements. Folic acid is not considered to be toxic, but taking more than 1,000 mcg per day is not usually recommended because it can mask a vitamin B-12 deficiency.
