Folate deficiency can occur for several reasons, including:[1][2][3][4]
- Insufficient dietary intake
- Certain medications (e.g., methotrexate, antiepileptics, oral contraceptives)
- Impaired absorption (e.g., celiac disease, gastric bypass, alcohol use disorder)
- Pregnancy (due to an increased biological demand for folate)
- Genetic polymorphisms (e.g., MTHFR, DHFR)
A folate deficiency can be diagnosed by doing a blood test, as the primary clinical sign is a type of anemia characterized by abnormally large and underdeveloped red blood cells (megaloblastic anemia).[4] Symptoms of deficiency can include fatigue, poor concentration, increased heart rate (tachycardia), irritability, dizziness, pale skin, and a painful red tongue.[2]
References
- ^Lam NSK, Long XX, Li X, Saad M, Lim F, Doery JC, Griffin RC, Galletly CThe potential use of folate and its derivatives in treating psychiatric disorders: A systematic review.Biomed Pharmacother.(2022-Feb)
- ^Kurowska K, Kobylińska M, Antosik KFolic acid - importance for human health and its role in COVID-19 therapy.Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig.(2023)
- ^Khan KM, Jialal IFolic Acid DeficiencyStatPearls.(2024-01)
- ^Bokayeva K, Jamka M, Banaszak M, Makarewicz-Bukowska A, Adamczak A, Chrobot M, Janicka A, Jaworska N, Walkowiak JThe Effect of Folic Acid Supplementation on Endothelial Function and Arterial Stiffness Markers in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.Healthcare (Basel).(2023-Sep-13)