Is folic acid metabolism testing necessary?

Nov 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

For women who are planning pregnancy or are pregnant, folic acid can prevent fetal neural tube defects and reduce the risk of other birth defects such as cleft lip and palate and congenital heart disease. Folic acid metabolism testing can assess an individual's ability to absorb and utilize folic acid. If there is a folic acid metabolism disorder, the body may be unable to effectively convert ingested folic acid into its active form for use, even if adequate folic acid is consumed.

In general, folic acid metabolism testing is necessary. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to promptly visit a hospital for proper diagnosis and treatment under the guidance of a physician. The detailed analysis is as follows:

For women who are planning pregnancy or currently pregnant, folic acid helps prevent fetal neural tube defects and reduces the risk of birth defects such as cleft lip and palate, and congenital heart disease. Folic acid metabolism testing can assess an individual's ability to absorb and utilize folic acid. If there is a metabolic impairment, the body may ingest folic acid but fail to effectively convert it into its active form for use. Through this test, individuals can understand their own folic acid metabolism status, allowing doctors to develop personalized folic acid supplementation plans for women preparing for pregnancy and pregnant women. Individuals identified as high-risk for folic acid metabolism may require higher folic acid dosages to ensure adequate supply during fetal development, while also avoiding both insufficient and excessive folic acid intake.

If folic acid supplementation is inadequate, it cannot fulfill its intended role in preventing birth defects; conversely, excessive supplementation may lead to adverse effects, such as impaired zinc absorption. Folic acid metabolism testing enables more scientific supplementation, thereby protecting maternal and infant health.

In daily life, maintaining good dietary habits and balanced nutrition, along with sufficient intake of folic acid and other essential nutrients, contributes to overall health and helps prevent related diseases.

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