Folic Acid is a form of Vitamin B that is normally found in foods like oranges, whole wheat, liver and green vegetables. Folic Acid is essential to numerous bodily functions, such as synthesizing DNA or repairing DNA. Folic Acid is especially important in aiding rapid cell division and growth, such as in infancy or pregnancy. Children and adults both require Folic Acid to produce healthy red blood cells (RBC) and prevent anemia (decreased RBC count). The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

It is particularly important for women who are pregnant to consume enough folic acid. This helps prevent the fetus from developing major congenital deformities of the brain or spine, including neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Women planning to get pregnant should take folic acid supplements for a full year before conception to reduce the risk of these developments.

Before you buy Folic Acid and begin taking it, you should let your doctor know if you have kidney disease, hemolytic anemia, pernicious anemia, infection or if you drink alcohol. Possible mild side effects can include nausea, bloating, bitter or unpleasant taste in the mouth, sleep problems, or the feeling of being excited or irritable.