Herbs and Supplements 101: Folate

WHAT IT IS

A naturally occurring B vitamin found in leafy greens, citrus fruit, beans, and peas. Folic acid is the synthetic form added to foods and supplements.

BENEFITS

Essential during pregnancy, folate helps create red blood cells, DNA, and RNA. Also assists in metabolizing the amino acid homocysteine, which in high levels is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

*Consult your health care practitioner for a dose that's right for you.