Folic acid, also known as folate, is a B vitamin used for a variety of functions, including energy production, brain function and DNA synthesis. It is found in beans, egg yolks, nuts, lentils and sweet potatoes. Research indicates that folic acid might play a role in lowering the risk for dementia.
Folate Deficiency
Researchers from the Chonnam National University Medical School in Korea investigated the relationship between folate status and the incidence of dementia in persons over the age of 65. Participants without dementia were followed for 2.4 years. Folate levels were measured at baseline and at the end of the study. Scientists discovered that participants with low folate levels at baseline increased their risk of developing dementia compared to those with adequate folate levels, according to the February 2008 issue of the "Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry."
Cognitive Performance
In research reported in the January 2007 issue of the journal "Lancet," scientists from Wageningen University in the Netherlands explored the impact of folic acid supplementation on cognitive function in elderly adults. Participants were assigned to receive 800 mg of folic acid or a placebo for three years. Researchers found that the folic acid group experienced significant improvements in cognitive performance tasks, such as memory and information processing speed, compared to the placebo group.
Alzheimer's Disease
Scientists from Columbia University and the University of California studied the impact of folate intake on the risk of Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, in persons 65 years or older. They discovered that participants with a higher folate intake reduced their risk of Alzheimer's disease compared to those with lower folate intake, according to findings reported in the January 2007 issue of the journal "Archives of Neurology."
Side Effects
Folic acid might cause diarrhea, gas and stomach upset. In addition, excess folic acid might lead to impaired judgment, irritability and confusion, according to the MayoClinic.com. If you experience any of these symptoms, reduce your folic acid intake.
References
- "Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry"; Changes in Folate, Vitamin B12, and Homocysteine Associated With Incident Dementia; Jae-Min Kim, et al.; February 2008
- "Lancet"; Effect of 3-Year Folic Acid Supplementation on Cognitive Function in Older Adults in the FACIT Trial: a Randomized, Double Blind, Controlled Trial; J. Durga, et al.; January 2007
- "Archives of Neurology"; Relation of Higher Folate Intake to Lower Risk of Alzheimer Disease in the Elderly; J.A. Luchsinger, et al.; January 2007
- MayoClinic.com: Folate (Folic Acid)
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