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How should elderly people supplement folic acid?

Sep 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Generally, folic acid is an important B vitamin. Older adults can obtain folic acid by consuming foods such as spinach, rape, broccoli, corn, and walnuts, or through medications such as enalapril maleate and folic acid tablets, multivitamin tablets, calcium folinate tablets, folic acid syrup, and vitamin B12 tablets. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.

Generally, folic acid is an essential B-vitamin. Older adults can obtain folic acid from foods such as spinach, rape (Chinese cabbage), broccoli, corn, and walnuts, as well as through medications including enalapril maleate and folic acid tablets, multivitamin tablets, calcium folinate tablets, folic acid syrup, and vitamin B12 tablets. If any discomfort occurs, medical advice should be sought promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Food Sources

1. Spinach
Spinach contains high levels of natural folic acid and is an important dietary source for folic acid supplementation. Moderate consumption of spinach also helps supplement iron and prevent iron-deficiency anemia.

2. Rape (Chinese Cabbage)
As a common vegetable, rape not only has a pleasant taste but is also rich in folic acid and other nutrients, making it a good food source for folic acid intake. Absorbed folic acid plays multiple physiological roles in the body, such as promoting cell division and growth and maintaining immune system health.

3. Broccoli
Broccoli is another folic acid-rich vegetable. The folic acid in broccoli is released during digestion and absorbed in the small intestine. It also contains abundant vitamin C and dietary fiber, which contribute to overall health promotion.

4. Corn
Corn contains a certain amount of folic acid. Moderate consumption helps meet the body's folic acid requirements and may help prevent cardiovascular diseases.

5. Walnuts
Walnuts are nutrient-dense nuts rich in folic acid, vitamin E, and unsaturated fatty acids. Both folic acid and vitamin E support nerve health. Regular consumption of walnuts may help improve memory and prevent Alzheimer's disease.

II. Medications

1. Enalapril Maleate and Folic Acid Tablets
The folic acid in enalapril maleate and folic acid tablets is chemically synthesized, offering higher stability and bioavailability. After ingestion, the folic acid is rapidly absorbed in the small intestine into the bloodstream, where it participates in various biochemical reactions.

2. Multivitamin Tablets
Multivitamin tablets contain various vitamins and minerals, including folic acid. Like enalapril maleate and folic acid tablets, they provide folic acid through chemical synthesis. Upon ingestion, the folic acid is absorbed and utilized by the small intestine.

3. Calcium Folinate Tablets
Calcium folinate is the calcium salt form of folic acid, offering greater stability and solubility. It provides folic acid via chemical synthesis and is absorbed and used in the body. These tablets contain both folic acid and calcium, making them suitable for older adults who need to supplement both nutrients simultaneously.

4. Folic Acid Syrup
Folic acid syrup is rich in folic acid, provided through chemical synthesis. After ingestion, the folic acid is absorbed and utilized by the small intestine. It is particularly suitable for elderly individuals with swallowing difficulties or those requiring liquid supplementation, helping promote bone marrow cell development and prevent Alzheimer's disease and anemia.

5. Vitamin B12 Tablets
Although vitamin B12 tablets do not directly supply folic acid, they play a crucial role in the folic acid metabolic cycle, enhancing the absorption and utilization of folic acid.

Older adults should maintain a balanced diet and regularly monitor their health to ensure adequate and balanced nutrient intake.

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