Vitamin B9

Vitamin B9, called folate in food and folic acid in tablets, needed to make DNA and new cells, including red blood cells, and especially important around pregnancy.

Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9, found in dark green leafy vegetables, pulses such as rajma and chana, and citrus fruit. Folic acid is the stable form used in supplements and fortified foods, and the body absorbs it more readily.

The body needs folate to make DNA and divide cells, which makes it important for red blood cells and for growth. Folic acid before conception and in early pregnancy lowers the risk of neural tube defects in the baby; this is well established. Folate works closely with vitamin B12.

• DNA and cell growth
• Red blood cells
• Pregnancy nutrition
• Works with vitamin B12