Folic acid is one of the B vitamins....This vitamin helps the body make new cells....that's why it's vital for growing children to get it....If you want to know more about the benefits of folic acid for children, read this article from GCORP LLC to the end.

Benefits of folic acid for children

Folic acid, sometimes called folate or vitamin B9, has many benefits for children. For example:

1.... helps the body grow

Folic acid is essential for the development of children. This important nutrient helps the production of cells and the growth of various tissues in the body and is involved in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, a process that actively occurs during childhood.

2... prevents the occurrence of birth defects

Getting enough folic acid during pregnancy prevents the birth of a baby with neural tube problems, including spina bifida. It also improves the child's mental performance and reduces the possibility of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Learn more:What is folic acid for in pregnancy?

3.... minimizes the possibility of getting anemia

Folic acid helps in the production of red blood cells. As a result, its deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia. Children with this type of anemia suffer from problems such as weakness, fatigue, paleness, restlessness, and loss of appetite.

4.... prevents depression

Folic acid plays a role in the production of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Therefore, its insufficient intake is associated with an increased risk of depression and other mental health problems.

5.... reduces inflammation in the body

Inflammation plays a role in many diseases... According to research, folic acid can reduce inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein.

Benefits of taking folic acid for young children

Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder that causes a decrease in hemoglobin.... Hemoglobin is found in red blood cells and is responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.

There are several types of thalassemia, one of which is thalassemia minor.. Children with thalassemia minor do not notice any symptoms or problems, but they are carriers of this disease and can pass it on to their children in the future.

Thalassemia minor usually does not require treatment.. but in case of mild anemia, the doctor may recommend the use of folic acid supplements.

Learn more:Why is folic acid recommended during menstruation?

The amount of folic acid needed by children

The amount of folic acid needed by the body depends on age and is as follows:

• Infants less than 6 months: 65 micrograms
Infants seven to 12 months: 80 micrograms Children one to three years old: 150 micrograms Children four to eight years old: 200 micrograms Children 9 to 13 years: 300 micrograms
• Adolescents 14 to 18 years old: 400 micrograms

Pregnant or lactating teenage girls should receive 600 and 500 micrograms of vitamin B9, respectively.

Vitamin B9 is found naturally in many foods such as spinach, broccoli, citrus fruits, avocados, eggs and beef liver.. Therefore, its deficiency is rare..

Learn more:Folic acid: benefits, side effects and recommended dosage

The best time to take folic acid for children

The dose of folic acid supplement and the duration of its use depends on the age of the child and his health condition... Use this supplement exactly according to the doctor's or manufacturer's instructions and do not arbitrarily change the amount or duration of its use.

The child can receive folic acid supplement with food or on an empty stomach.. The folic acid tablet should be taken completely with a glass of water.. If you use folic acid syrup for children, measure it with a special spoon.... because homemade spoons are not accurate and may mislead you.

Learn more:What foods contain folic acid?

If the child sometimes forgets to take folic acid, it is probably not a problem... But if this happens frequently, talk to your doctor.

Learn more: What are Pedi Locket drops for?

Consequences of high consumption of folic acid for children

There is not enough information about the maximum permissible amount of folic acid intake in infants... but it is recommended that other children and adolescents limit the intake of this vitamin to the following amounts, unless the child's doctor orders otherwise:

• Children one to three years old: 300 micrograms
Children four to eight years old: 400 micrograms Children 9 to 13 years: 600 micrograms
• Adolescents 14 to 18 years old: 800 micrograms

In general, it is safe for children to eat folate-rich foods....but taking too much folate supplements can be problematic....Evidence shows that high folic acid in children may cause digestive problems (such as nausea and diarrhea), behavioral changes, skin reactions or seizures, or immunosuppression.>

Learn more:What are the benefits of folic acid for hair?

Endword

Most children can get the folic acid they need through food... If you think your child's diet is not getting enough folic acid, ask your pediatrician if a supplement is needed.

It is recommended that you never use folic acid tablets, syrups or drops on your own for children....because excessive consumption of this nutrient is harmful to health.

For a pediatric consultation and to schedule an in-person appointment or online consultation with your doctor of choice, visit the GCORP LLC website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources: healthline, nhs