How to Prevent Folate Deficiency

While a Folate deficiency is often relatively easy to treat, a better approach is to take measures to prevent the occurrence of a deficiency before it ever happens. Fortunately, there are a few common sense steps to maintaining a proper level of Folate in the body that do not require a great deal of effort. In fact, everyone can decrease the chances for developing a Folate deficiency by making a few simple changes in the way they live and what they eat.

Instructions

1

Dont smoke. Or if you already smoke or use any type of tobacco product, quit immediately. Tobacco products use up folate or Folic acid in the body quickly. Since only trace amounts of Folate are stored in the liver, this means that heavy smokers will quickly exhaust their supply of Folate, even if they are getting plenty of the vitamin in the daily diet.

2

Cut back on the alcohol consumption. Like tobacco products, alcohol can interfere with the function of Folate in the body and deplete the limited amount of this water-soluble vitamin that is stored in the body. Keep the use of alcohol at a minimum and this will minimize the chances for developing a deficiency.

3

Examine your prescription medications. Many types of sulfa drugs and barbiturates can deplete Folate resources rapidly. Some medications, such as Dilantin, can also impact the ability of the body to store some Folate in the liver. In some cases, your doctor may be able to recommend other medications that will provide the same benefit, but will not interfere with your Folate levels.

4

Minimize the caffeine consumption. Coffee can deplete Folic acid in the body quickly and is often one of the first things to be removed from the diet when a Folate deficiency takes place. However, caffeine is found in many different substances, such as black tea and chocolate. Keeping the caffeine consumption to a minimum will help decrease the chances of developing a Folic acid deficiency.

5

Eat the right foods. Green leafy vegetables provide a lot of nutrients, including Folate. Soybeans also pack a nice amount of Folate, along with mushrooms and wheat germ. Some breakfast cereals made with whole grains are also fortified with credible amounts of Folate. From the dairy case, enjoy eggs and yogurt to help keep those Folate levels up.

6

Take a supplement. Many multivitamins include Folate. It is also possible to purchase Folate or Folic acid as a stand along vitamin supplement. If you are not able to eat healthy meals on a given day, the supplement may be helpful.