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Side effects of folic acid

Folic Acid:

Folic acid is a B vitamin is also called as folate is used in for cell formation, DNA replication, formation of red and white blood cells in our body, and other important functions like reducing the risk of serious birth defects that affect the brain and spinal cord of the baby of a pregnant women. Folic acid is present green, leafy vegetables, fruits, beans, peas, peanuts, and meat sources. The recommended dietary allowance for regular adults is at 400 mcg/day. About 600 mcg/day is needed for pregnant women. If there is any deficiency of folic acid in pregnant women the it varies from 400 – 1000 mcg/day.

Overdose of folic acid:

But taking too much folic acid can lead to decreased vitamin B12 serum levels. And causes both mild as well as severe side effects as per the amount and duration of the folic acid intake.

Mild side effects of Folic Acid:

• Nausea
• decreased appetite
• bloated abdomen and bloating gas
• flatulence
• bitter taste
• insomnia which is severe sleep problem
• Trouble in focusing and concentrating
• Irritability and increase in activity level

Severe side effects of Folic Acid:

• difficulty breathing
• closing of the throat
• swelling of your lips, tongue or face
• hives
• dizziness
• a bitter or foul taste of the mouth general weakness
• Loose stools or diarrhea
• shortness of breath
• Allergic reaction (difficulty in breathing, swelling of lips, tongue, face or hives rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest, tingling of the skin)
• loss of muscle coordination

• difficulty in walking
• mental depression and confusion
• wheezing

If the side effects are serious immediately contact your doctor. Add a supplement of B vitamin and vitamin B 12 because the folic acid can lead to the deficiency of vitamin B 12.