Folic acid, also known as folate, is a type of B vitamin that you can find naturally in plant foods such as peas, dried beans, lentils, oranges, whole-wheat products, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, kale and spinach, says Drugs.com. Having folic acid in the body is important because it assists in the production and maintenance of new cells in the body and prevents DNA changes that can lead to cancer.
How Much is Too Much?
While folic acid is necessary to synthesize DNA and protects against colon cancer and heart disease and prevents birth effects, it is important that you don't take too much. Monica Reinagel, M.S., L.D./N., states that too much folic acid can mask a B-12 deficiency, which can lead to neurological damage. A regular adult would need about 400mcg a day. While getting too much folic acid from foods is not a concern, the fear of too much arises when supplements are taken along with the intake of these foods. Talk to your doctor about folate supplements -- especially if you have a history of colon cancer in your family.
Side Effects and Interactions of Folic Acid Supplements
The Mayo Clinic states that stomatitis, alopecia, myelosupression and zinc depletion have been reported in patients taking folate supplements. Patients taking folic acid intravenously along with vitamin B-6 and vitamin B-12 might experience symptoms such as erythema, urticaria, skin flushing, rash, itching, nausea, bloating, flatulence, cramps, bitter taste and diarrhea. You may also notice that the color of your urine may become more intense. High doses of folic acid might also increase seizures in people with seizure disorders.
Side Effects of Folic Acid as Medication
Drugs.com says that folic acid may be used at times to treat folic acid deficiency, as well as certain types of anemia. You will need to take this medication with a full glass of water, and it should not be taken if you have an allergy to folic acid. Drugs.com states that there are no common side effects when small doses are taken.
Folic Acid and Pregnancy
The FDA recommends that women who are planning to become pregnant increase their intake of folic acid to prevent the fetus from developing a neural tube defect, states the Mayo Clinic.
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