folic acid

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. a water-soluble vitamin that is converted to a coenzyme essential to purine and thymine biosynthesis: deficiency causes a form of anemia.

folic acid

/ ˈfɒl-; ˈfəʊleɪt; ˈfəʊlɪk /

noun

1. any of a group of vitamins of the B complex, including pteroylglutamic acid and its derivatives: used in the treatment of megaloblastic anaemia Also calledfolacin

folic acid

/ fō′lĭk,fŏl′ĭk /

1. A water-soluble vitamin belonging to the vitamin B complex that is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and important in embryonic development. It is also the parent compound of coenzymes in various metabolic reactions. Folic acid is found especially in green leafy vegetables, liver, and fresh fruit. Deficiency of folic acid in the diet results in anemia. Chemical formula: C 19 H 19 N 7 O 6 .

Derived Forms

• ˈfolate, nounadjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of folic acid¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Word History and Origins

Origin of folic acid¹

C20: from Latin folium leaf; so called because it may be obtained from green leaves

Example Sentences

In addition, the NHS recommends women who are trying for a baby take folic acid supplements for approximately three months before getting pregnant, and for at least 12 weeks after becoming pregnant.

From BBC

During the healing process, I found out that my folic acid is super low.

From Seattle Times

Nevertheless, health advocates have argued for decades that fortifying masa with folic acid is necessary and have pushed to make it mandatory.

From Los Angeles Times

Though some have a genetic basis, at least half are caused by a folate deficiency, and a key 1991 Lancet study showed that 72% of neural tube defects could be prevented with folic acid supplementation.

From Seattle Times

They next turned their attention to how folic acid may modulate CRKL-mediated spina bifida.

From Science Daily