Vitamin B9

Vitamin B9,also known as folate or folic acid, is one of the B-complex vitamins. It is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. Here's why you need vitamin B9:

• DNA synthesis and cell division: Vitamin B9 is involved in the synthesis and repair of DNA, the genetic material in cells. It is essential for proper cell division and growth, making it particularly important during periods of rapid cell division such as during pregnancy and infancy.
• Red blood cell production: Vitamin B9 is necessary for the production and maturation of red blood cells in the bone marrow. Sufficient levels of folate are essential to prevent megaloblastic anemia, a condition characterized by abnormally large and immature red blood cells.
• Homocysteine metabolism: Vitamin B9, along with vitamins B6 and B12, helps metabolize homocysteine, an amino acid. High levels of homocysteine in the blood have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Adequate intake of vitamin B9 helps maintain normal homocysteine levels, promoting cardiovascular health.
• Neural tube development: Adequate levels of vitamin B9, particularly during early pregnancy, are crucial for the proper development of the neural tube in the fetus. The neural tube eventually develops into the baby's brain and spinal cord. Sufficient folate intake can help prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, in newborns.
• Cognitive function: Research suggests that vitamin B9 may play a role in supporting cognitive function and mental health. Adequate levels of folate have been associated with a reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline and certain mood disorders, such as depression.

Dietary sources of vitamin B9 include leafy green vegetables (such as spinach and kale), legumes (such as lentils and chickpeas), citrus fruits, fortified cereals, and liver. Additionally, folic acid, the synthetic form of vitamin B9, is commonly added to fortified foods and used in dietary supplements to ensure adequate intake.

It's important to note that pregnant women, women who may become pregnant, and individuals with certain medical conditions may require higher levels of vitamin B9 and may need to take supplements as advised by healthcare professionals. Consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended to determine the appropriate intake for your specific needs.

Vitamin B9, or folate/folic acid, supplementation is generally considered safe and well-tolerated when taken within the recommended doses. However, there are a few important considerations and potential risks associated with vitamin B9 supplementation:

• Interaction with certain medications: High-dose supplementation of vitamin B9 may interact with certain medications. For example, anticonvulsant medications like phenytoin and primidone may interfere with folate absorption or metabolism. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications to assess potential interactions.
• Masking vitamin B12 deficiency: Vitamin B9 supplementation can improve the hematological symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, such as anemia, while neurological symptoms may persist or worsen. This can delay the diagnosis and treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency, which can have serious consequences for nerve health. It's important to maintain an appropriate balance between vitamin B9 and vitamin B12 intake, especially for individuals at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
• Excessive intake: High doses of folic acid from supplements may be associated with potential risks in certain populations. Some studies have suggested that excessive folic acid supplementation, especially in individuals with pre-existing colorectal adenomas or cancers, may increase the risk of developing colorectal tumors. However, more research is needed to establish a clear association and to determine the optimal dosage to balance the benefits and risks.

Medical contraindications for Vitamin B9 (Folate):

• Vitamin B12 deficiency: High doses of vitamin B9 can mask the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to irreversible nerve damage if left untreated. It's important to maintain an appropriate balance between vitamin B9 and B12 intake, especially for individuals at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.(NeuroAID Ultra contains a relatively high dosage of Vitamin B9, but it is part of a balanced therapeutic formula, one of the intentions of which is to avoid that problem.)
• Certain medications: Vitamin B9 supplementation may interact with certain medications, such as anticonvulsant drugs, which can interfere with folate absorption or metabolism. Consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications to assess potential interactions.
• Some medications that may interact badly with Vitamin B9 include:

• Methotrexate: Methotrexate is a medication used to treat certain cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis. High doses of folic acid (the synthetic form of Vitamin B9) can reduce the effectiveness of methotrexate and interfere with its therapeutic effects. Therefore, individuals taking methotrexate should avoid high-dose Vitamin B9 supplements unless specifically directed by their healthcare provider.
• Antiepileptic medications: Some antiepileptic drugs, such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and primidone, can interfere with the body's ability to use folate, leading to lower levels of active Vitamin B9. This can increase the risk of folate deficiency, so individuals taking these medications may require additional Vitamin B9 supplementation, but the dosages should be carefully monitored by a healthcare professional.
• Sulfasalazine: Sulfasalazine is a medication used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and certain types of arthritis. It can interfere with the absorption and utilization of folate, leading to potential folate deficiency. In some cases, supplementation with folic acid may be prescribed to counteract this effect, but it should be done under medical supervision.
• Trimethoprim: Trimethoprim is an antibiotic that can reduce the levels of folate in the body. This can lead to a deficiency, which may cause certain side effects. Some individuals taking trimethoprim may need to supplement with folic acid, but it should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
• Oral contraceptives: Long-term use of oral contraceptives (birth control pills) may reduce the absorption of folic acid. Women taking oral contraceptives for an extended period may need additional Vitamin B9 supplementation, but it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing.
• Cholestyramine: Cholestyramine is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels. It can decrease the absorption of folic acid, potentially leading to lower folate levels. In some cases, folic acid supplementation may be necessary, but it should be done under medical supervision.
• Triamterene: Triamterene is a diuretic used to treat edema (fluid retention) and hypertension. It can interfere with the metabolism of folate, leading to lower levels of active Vitamin B9. Folate supplementation may be considered in individuals taking triamterene, but it should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

It's always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian. They can evaluate your specific circumstances, consider any underlying medical conditions or medications you may be taking, and provide personalized advice on dosage and potential risks. They will be able to guide you based on your individual health needs and ensure your safety.

Bear in mind that not all medical professionals are convinced of the benefits of nutritional supplementation, and we strongly recommend consultation with MDs who are also Naturopathic Practitioners, as well as Chiropractors and other medical professionals who are trained in the therapeutic uses and methodology of supplementation.