Folate and Its Importance Beyond Pregnancy

Folate is the generic term for vitamin B9, a water-soluble vitamin found naturally in many foods, including dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, and legumes. It is required for DNA replication and as a substrate for various enzymatic reactions involved in amino acid synthesis and vitamin metabolism. The prevalence of folate deficiency is quite variable worldwide. The leading causes of folate deficiency are low intake, malabsorption, or drug use. Patients of all age groups may develop folate deficiency; however, primary age groups include preschool children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Thus, it is essential to consider the conditions associated with altered folate status and their consequences.