Alzheimer's disease is a form of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with activities of daily living, according to Alzheimer's Association. Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin that may help to prevent Alzheimer's, according to Foodforthebrain.org.
Alzheimers and Folate
Folate is needed for the production and maintenance of new cells. Research shows that low levels of folate leads to raised homocysteine levels. High levels of homocysteine cause brain damage and can triggers Alzheimer's, according to Foodforthebrain.org. Homocysteine is an amino acid produced from the digestion of foods. Folate is needed for the metabolism of homocysteine.
Sources of Folic Acid
The daily requirement of folic acid is 400 mcg in adults with Alzheimer's, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Natural sources of folic acid include green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, mustard greens, collard greens, asparagus, turnip greens, beans, peas, lentils, egg yolks, sunflower seeds, fruits, fruit juices, liver, kidney, red meat, poultry, fish, fortified breads and cereals.
Folic Acid Supplements
Folic acid supplements are available as tablets. The tablets are taken once a day with or without food, according to PubMedHealth. Patients with severe Alzheimer's require assistance in taking folic acid supplements. Patients allergic to folic acid should inform the doctor or pharmacist. Patients should inform the doctor of prescription or over-the-counter medications they are taking, because folic acid may interact with some medications.
Symptoms of Folate Deficiency in Older Adults
Older patients with folate deficiency may experience symptoms such as anemia, loss of appetite, sore tongue, diarrhea, headache, heart palpitations, weight loss, irritability, forgetfulness, personality changes and dementia, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Older patients should be examined regularly for vitamin deficiencies to prevent Alzheimer's and other symptoms of folate deficiency.
