Folic acid, or vitamin B9, is a vitamin that falls into the category of so-called water-soluble vitamins. These vitamins are those that cannot be accumulated in the body but must necessarily be taken with food. A common belief is that folic acid is only useful for pregnant women in helping the fetus develop but it is not. Folic acid is certainly essential for pregnant women, but it is also essential for all other adults, men and women. In fact, every adult needs about 0.3 mg of this vitamin to stay healthy. Getting the right amount of folic acid is necessary, today we will see the 3 greatest benefits of folic acid and 3 foods that contain it.
The 3 biggest benefits of folic acid and 3 foods that contain it
Benefits of folic acid
- counteracts anemia: a folic acid deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, a condition that involves a lack of iron in hemoglobin;
- helps the nervous system: a correct intake of this vitamin helps keep the nervous system active, preventing disorders such as stress and depression;
- can prevent stroke: folic acid is a valuable aid in stroke prevention, a recent study reveals.
Foods that contain folic acid
- Beans with the eye: of the beans, they are the ones that contain the most folic acid of all. They are excellent to add to cold or stewed salads and eaten instead of meat with a side of vegetables;
- broccoli: in addition to being a valuable source of fiber, potassium and vitamin C, 100 grams of this vegetable contains 125 mcg of folic acid. A portion of broccoli (about 200 grams) is therefore able to satisfy the entire daily need for this vitamin;
- avocado: avocado contains 59 mcg of folic acid every 150 grams. It can be eaten in a salad or on a slice of bread for breakfast and enjoy the popular avocado toast.
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