Folátszükséglet

Folátszükséglet refers to the dietary requirement for folate, also known as vitamin B9. Folate is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including DNA synthesis and repair, cell growth, and red blood cell formation. Adequate folate intake is particularly important during periods of rapid cell division, such as pregnancy and infancy.

The recommended daily intake of folate varies depending on age, sex, and physiological status. For adult women, the recommended daily allowance is typically around 400 micrograms of dietary folate equivalents (DFE). Pregnant women have a higher requirement, often recommended to consume 600 mcg DFE daily, to support fetal development and prevent neural tube defects. Lactating women also have increased needs. For adult men, the recommendation is generally 400 mcg DFE per day.

Deficiency in folate can lead to megaloblastic anemia, a condition characterized by the production of abnormally large red blood cells, which can impair oxygen transport. Symptoms of folate deficiency may include fatigue, weakness, irritability, and shortness of breath. Severe deficiency during pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, in newborns.

Dietary sources of folate include leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale, legumes such as lentils and beans, and fortified foods like cereals and bread. Folic acid, the synthetic form of folate, is often used in dietary supplements and for food fortification due to its greater stability and bioavailability.