Folic acid belongs to the B group of vitamins. The group consists of 8 vitamins and each has a different effect.

Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin and is also called vitamin B9. It is a vitamin that participates in various processes within the human body. Folic acid, for example, is important for the formation of red blood cells and our DNA. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Folic acid is also an essential vitamin to take before and during pregnancy. In fact, it promotes the proper development of the nervous system of the foetus.

Folic acid is found mostly in vegetables (green), fruits and whole grain products. Milk also contains folic acid. Since it is a water-soluble vitamin, when cooking some 30 to 80% of the content of folic acid can be lost. So do not cook the food more than necessary and use the least amount of water possible.

A deficiency of folic acid may result in changes to the amount of white and red blood cells as well as contributing to abnormalities in the bone marrow. Moreover, a deficiency of folic acid can inhibit the absorption of various nutrients in the small intestine. There may also be decreased appetite and fatigue.

There are no known side effects due to an excessive intake of folic acid in its natural form (dietary folate) present in the diet. A high intake of folic acid from supplements or fortified foods can still have negative effects. An excess of the latter can in fact hide a deficiency of vitamin B12 in the blood.

If you recently undergone a gastric band or sleeve placement it is essential to take a daily amount of folic acid of between 200 and 400 micrograms. This value corresponds to 100-200% of the Recommended Daily Allowance.

Because of changes made to the intestine following surgery, your need for folic acid increases. The tract of the intestine that absorbs this vitamin has been bypassed, so that the degree of assimilation of folic acid by the body is much lower. Therefore, it is necessary to assume an amount of between 600 and 800 micrograms or 300 - 400% of the normal recommended daily requirement, to provide to your body with an adequate daily intake.

For those who do not follow a varied diet and consume fewer vegetables (green), fruits and whole grain products, a supplement containing folic acid can help to compliment the diet.

WLS Optimum and WLS Forte can help you take on the adequate amount of folic acid and all in just one capsule per day. For more information, please refer to our homepage: www.fitforme.co.uk A folic acid supplement is recommended for women who wish to have a child and for pregnant women in order to reduce the risk that the foetus may suffer from spina bifida. It should be taken through a supplement, 400 micrograms of folic acid per day from at least four and up to eight weeks after the date of conception.

If you are already taking WLS Optimum in addition to other multivitamins, you should take a supplement of folic acid to promote the development of the unborn child. If you are taking WLS Forte, folic acid supplementation is not necessary. WLS Forte contains sufficient folic acid to meet your needs. We recommend that you inform your gynecologist if you use one of these two supplements.

Do you have any questions about folic acid or other topics? Contact our Customer Support team or send an email to info@fitforme.co.uk

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