folic acid

folic acid A member of the water-soluble, B vitamin family that is essential for cell growth and proliferation and for the proper utilization of vitamin B12 and vitamin C. Folic acid is an important factor in nucleic acid (RNA and DNA) synthesis. It is found in leafy green vegetables, liver and other organ meats, and whole grains. Deficiency of folic acid can lead to slow growth, diarrhea, oral inflammation, a decrease in all types of blood cells (pancytopenia), and megaloblastic anemia (anemia with abnormally large red blood cells). Inadequate folic acid during pregnancy raises the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus and of miscarriages. Also known as folate. Nonpregnant adults require 200 micrograms of folic acid per day. For pregnant women, typically 1 mg daily is recommend in the form of prenatal multivitamins.