what is folic acid

Folic acid is a B vitamin that helps the body make healthy new cells. It is the synthetic form of folate, which is naturally found in many foods. Folic acid is used to prevent and treat low blood levels of folate (folate deficiency) and high blood levels of homocysteine (hyperhomocysteinemia) . It is also used to prevent serious birth defects such as spina bifida in babies. Folic acid is added to many foods such as cold cereals, flour, breads, pasta, bakery items, cookies, and crackers, as required by federal law. Foods that are naturally high in folate include leafy green vegetables, fruits, dried beans, peas, and nuts. If you dont get enough folic acid from the foods you eat, you can also take it as a dietary supplement.