Can healthy individuals take folic acid?
Disease description:
Because I plan to get pregnant, I started taking folic acid three months in advance—and I’ve been consistently taking it. It’s beneficial for both my own health and my baby’s development. However, I’m curious: Can people who are not planning pregnancy also take folic acid?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Xiaohui
Hello,
Folic acid is essentially a B-group vitamin. It is commonly taken by pregnant women throughout pregnancy to help prevent maternal and fetal anemia or congenital malformations. Healthy individuals may also take folic acid, as it is a naturally occurring vitamin essential for cellular growth and replication. Additionally, folic acid supports protein metabolism, helps prevent intestinal parasitic infections, and—working synergistically with vitamin B12—promotes red blood cell production. It is thus an indispensable nutrient for erythropoiesis.
We hope this information is helpful to you. Wishing you a happy and healthy life!
