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

Folic acid is particularly important in early pregnancy, aiding proper development of the baby's brain, skull and spinal cord.

From BBC

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

Folic acid is to be added to non-wholemeal wheat flour in the UK to help prevent birth defects.

From BBC

Adding folic acid to flour could prevent around 200 cases of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, every year, and improve the health of pregnant women, says the government, which is giving manufacturers until the end of 2026 to conform to the new legal requirement.

From BBC

Expectant mothers and women trying to conceive should continue to take supplementary folic acid - the synthetic version of the vitamin folate - as currently advised by medical practioners.

From BBC