Cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow out of normal cells in the body. The growth of cancer cells is usually out of control, which leads to tumors in the body. Cancer can develop in any part of your body. Common causes of cancer include smoking, exposure to radiation, excessive exposure to sunlight and viruses. Folic acid can help prevent cancer growth.
About Folic Acid
Folic acid, also known as vitamin B-9, is a B-complex vitamin that is necessary for DNA synthesis and the production of healthy cells. Folic acid can protect your DNA from changes that can lead to the growth of cancerous cells, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Recent research has found a link between lower folic acid intake and higher risk of cancers of the colon, ovaries, breasts, pancreas, stomach and esophagus, according to the American Cancer Society. You can obtain folic acid from food or supplements.
Food Sources
Eat foods rich in folic acid every day to obtain the daily requirements of the vitamin. Foods rich in folic acid also contain cancer-fighting substances. Good sources of folic acid include spinach, kale, broccoli, mustard greens, asparagus, milk, turnip greens, Brussels sprouts, beans, beef liver, red meat, fish, chicken, beans, enriched bread and breakfast cereals.
Supplements
Your doctor may recommend folic acid supplements if you are unable to obtain the daily requirements of the vitamin from food. Folic acid supplements are available in form of tablets, softgels, lozenges and injections. Folic acid is in many multivitamins and individual vitamins that are sold over-the-counter. If you have cancer, consult your doctor before you take over-the-counter supplements. The doctor may prescribe folic acid injections if you have gastrointestinal problems that prevent the proper absorption of folic acid. Avoid overdosing on folic acid supplements. High doses of folic acid supplements may increase the growth of cancerous tumors, according to Linus Paul Institute.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cancer depends on the type and the location of the cancer. Some cancers may not have any symptoms at all. Symptoms of cancer include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, blood in the stool, fatigue, fever, chills, night sweats and unintentional weight loss.
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