As many of the previous researches say, folate deficiency is damaging for the fetus development. But new research highlights that this folate deficiency also causes chromosomal abnormalities in newborns due to their role DNA replication.

The scientists of the University of Copenhagen perform this new research. It says when a person becomes deficient on folate; it causes irreversible damage to their body. That’s why the doctor’s advice people especially pregnant mothers to be aware of their folate levels.

A deficiency in folate affects the most when the body is undergoing development as in pregnant women. This study is published in the scientific journal PNAS and is available online to view.

The researchers investigate how folate deficiency is causing problems in cell division and their role in DNA replication. By far, this folate deficiency has caused the most chromosomal abnormalities than previously known to us.

Folate is a compound of vitamin B that is naturally present in greens such as broccoli, spinach, peas and other food ingredients like mushrooms, shellfish and fruit like bananas and melons.

All medical experts advise pregnant women and those who are trying to conceive to take folate supplements daily. But let’s just accept that it is not necessarily helpful for pregnancy, in general, all women should consider it.

The problem with low levels of folate is that it affects chromosomal maintenance and repair mechanisms. Once the chromosomal part of the cell is damaged, it may not be fixed if the person has a folate deficiency.

It is a severe problem when the body is in developing phase because once the cell division goes wrong, you cannot fix. Even taking high folate after this mishap will not change it. This loss is irreversible.

Therefore it is necessary to know your body’s folate levels and maintain it in general. Once the current levels are known, it is easier to determine a daily folate dosage for a person.

Source: tophealthjournal.com