SpotlightFebruary2020

Intestinal surgeries or digestive disorders that cause malabsorption - Celiac disease and inflam- matory bowel disease can decrease the absorp- tion of folate. Surgeries involving the digestive organs or that reduce the normal level of stomach acid may also interfere with absorption. Genetic variants - People carrying a variant of the gene MTHFR cannot convert folate to its active form to be used by the body. Symptoms of a vitamin B9 deficiency include: - Red tongue, shiny, smooth and painful - Ulcers in mouth - Weakness and or fatigue - Red, swollen or bleeding gums - Intestinal malabsorption - Diarrhea - Heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat - Shortness of breath - Swelling of ankles - Light-headedness - Depression - Forgetfulness - Loss of appetite, weight loss - Greying hair - Excess pigmentation of skin - Irritable, brooding or self-conscious - Megaloblastic Anemia (a condition arising from

a lack of folate in the diet or poor absorption that produces less red blood cells, and larger in size than normal It is extremely rare to reach a toxic level when eating folate from food sources, and the use of a supplement is likely to be safe. However, an upper limit for folic acid is set at 1,000 mcg daily because studies have shown that taking higher amounts can mask a vitamin B12 deficiency, so it is wise to supplement with both of these nutrients at the same time. If you choose to use a folic acid supplement, stick with the lower range available of 400 mcg a day or less, as you will likely obtain additional folic acid from fortified foods like cereals and breads, as well as natural folate in food. However, in saying that, it is always best to check with a health professional before taking a supple- ment, especially for people with an existing health condition and those who are taking other drugs.

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FEBRUARY 2020 • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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