Folic Acid Supplement Benefits

Folic acid, or folate, is a B vitamin that is essential for health. It is used by the body to help make healthy blood cells, heal wounds and build muscle and tissue. Adequate folic acid levels are needed for proper growth and development during all stages of life. Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin that is constantly being used and excreted by the body. Because of this, it is important to consume adequate amounts each day. MedlinePlus recommends that adults consume a minimum of 400 mcg folic acid each day.

Protection in Pregnancy

It is important that women consume adequate amounts of folic acid both before and during pregnancy. Because folic acid is needed for cell formation, supplementation can help to prevent major birth defects during pregnancy. The National Women's Health Information Center recommends that all women of child-bearing age consume 400 to 800 mcg folic acid each day. If you have a family history of birth defects, your doctor may recommend consuming up to 4000 mcg folic acid each day during pregnancy.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Folic acid supplementation may help to reduce homocysteine levels in the blood. Homocysteine is a type of amino acid. A high blood homocysteine level has been linked to an increased risk for heart disease, stroke and peripheral vascular disease. According to the American Heart Association, high homocysteine levels may also promote atherosclerosis, which can lead to blood clots, heart attack and stroke. Consuming adequate amounts of folic acid each day can help to break down homocysteine and maintain safe levels of homocysteine in the blood.

Decreased Cancer Risk

According to the American Cancer Society, low levels of folic acid in the blood can increase your risk for certain cancers. Cells require a certain amount of folic acid to make and maintain healthy cells and DNA. Low levels of folic acid can decrease the body's ability to repair its cells from damage, which can allow cancerous cells and mutations to develop.

Mental Health

Like in heart disease, homocysteine levels may play a role in depression as well. Low levels of folic acid along with high blood homocysteine levels are associated with depression, dementia and mental disorders. Consuming adequate folic acid in the diet from food, supplements or a combination of the two can help maintain folic acid levels in the body, resulting in lower homocysteine levels in the blood.