Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid, is an essential vitamin that helps your body form red blood cells and DNA, which are the building blocks of your body. It is recommended that pregnant women take folic acid supplements during pregnancy. Folic acid reduces the occurrence of neural tube defects in the fetus.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin B9 varies depending on age, gender, and other factors. Here are some guidelines:
| Age Group | Recommended Daily Intake |
|---|---|
| Infants 0-6 months | 65 mcg |
| Infants 7-12 months | 80 mcg |
| Children 1-3 years | 150 mcg |
| Children 4-8 years | 200 mcg |
| Children 9-13 years | 300 mcg |
| Adolescents 14-18 years | 400 mcg |
| Adults 19 years and older | 400 mcg |
| Pregnant women | 600 mcg |
| Breastfeeding women | 500 mcg |
Additionally, supplementation with folic acid has been shown to reduce blood homocysteine levels effectively. Elevated homocysteine levels are one of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Folate deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia. Folic acid deficiency can be diagnosed by measuring its concentration in serum or red blood cells.
Please note that these are general guidelines, and your healthcare provider may recommend a different dosage based on your needs.
