Folate and Folic Acid For Kids

Not many people understand what foliate and folic acid are and what their purpose may be. This topic certainly doesn’t get as much attention as it should, considering how serious the effects are if your child is deficient in these nutrients. Children require folate from before birth, through their early development, and into adulthood. 

Pregnant women are strongly advised to take folic acid when they know they are pregnant. Also, many parents give their kids multivitamins to provide a range of nutrients, including this vital nutrient to support their growth and development.  

Folic Acid (or Folate)

Folic acid is the synthetic version of vitamin B9. It is also known as folate when it’s in its natural state, for example, when it’s found in vegetables and fruits.

When you eat foods with folate, it converts into Vitamin B9 in your gut easily, which then gets absorbed by your body.

Be aware that you should consult your doctor about the correct dose if you need to take a folic acid supplement, as too much of it isn’t good for your body. 

Benefits of Folate for Kids

Folate aids cell and tissue growth and supports the synthesis and repair of DNA and RNA, which are the processes actively happening during childhood. 

Folate helps with brain development, the nervous system, and the digestive and immune systems.

Kids growing bodies also make red blood cells with the help of folate. So if children are deficient in folate, they may suffer from red blood cell shortage, also known as anaemia - folic acid deficiency condition. 

As a result, kids with folate deficiency experience low energy and shortness of breath. Other symptoms include low appetite, sore stomach or eyes and diarrhoea. 

Foods Which Include Folate

The best way for your child to receive folate is through a varied diet of fruits, vegetables, legumes, etc. Make sure to include foods like oranges, strawberries, leafy greens, avocado, carrots, cauliflower, asparagus, beetroot, broccoli, peas, eggs yolks, liver, nuts, lentils, beans, rice and wheat germ. 

Why Does a Child Need a Folate (Folic Acid) Supplement?

If your child is a peaky eater and not getting enough folate through their diet, we suggest giving them a multivitamin, which includes folic acid. It can bridge the nutritional gap during your child’s active development. 

Check Childlife Essentials Multi-Vitamin and Mineral or Multi Vitamin SoftMelts which both have Folic Acid (Folate).