What is folate deficiency anemia?
Folate-deficiency anemia is a type of anemia that occurs when your body lacks sufficient folate. Vitamin B9, also known as folate, is an essential B vitamin that supports red blood cell production. Red blood cells originate from stem cells in bone marrow. They transport oxygen throughout the body.
When there’s a folate deficiency, the production of red blood cells decreases, and the cells become enlarged. As a result, it reduces the ability to transport oxygen, causing fatigue, weakness, and organ dysfunction. The body struggles to work efficiently without enough oxygen.
How common is folate deficiency anemia?
Folate deficiency is more prevalent in lower-income countries, with rates exceeding 20%, compared to less than 5% in higher-income countries. It usually occurs in women rather than men.
What are the causes of folate deficiency anemia?
Below are the reasons for the cause of folate-deficiency anemia.
- Not consuming enough folate-rich foods like leafy greens, fruits, and fortified grains.
- Dialysis treatment for kidney failure.
- Conditions like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease that hinder nutrient absorption in the intestines.
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or conditions like cancer that increase the body’s need for folate.
- Excessive alcohol consumption also interrupts folate absorption and storage.
- Some drugs, like anticonvulsants and methotrexate, may impair folate metabolism.
What are the risk factors related to folate deficiency anemia?
Folate deficiency anemia can affect anyone, but certain persons are at higher risk.
Risk factors for folate deficiency anemia include:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding (chestfeeding).
- AFAB (assigned female at birth)
- Female with childbearing age
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Older age (over 60)
- Poverty; not consuming proper food.
- Digestion disorder with impaired nutrient absorption
What are the symptoms of folate deficiency anemia?
Here are the symptoms of folate deficiency anemia.
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin
- Being grouchy (irritable)
- Decreased appetite
- Smooth and tender tongue
- Decreased appetite
Folate deficiency anemia can occur without any symptoms. Since these symptoms resemble other blood conditions or health problems, it is advised to see the doctor as early as possible.
How is folate deficiency anemia diagnosed?
Folate deficiency anemia can be diagnosed through a physical exam and specific blood tests. The symptoms of folate deficiency anemia may mimic those of other health conditions; thus, precise blood tests are essential for diagnosis.
Specific blood tests may include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) examines the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelet count, along with hemoglobin levels in your blood.
- Peripheral Blood Smear (PBS), assess the size and shape of blood cells under a microscope.
- Reticulocyte Count measures immature red blood cells in bone marrow to evaluate red blood cell production.
Sometimes your healthcare provider may also recommend monitoring blood folate levels for further surety. They use the following scale to interpret results:
- Deficient: Less than 2 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).
- Borderline: Between 2 ng/mL and 4 ng/mL.
- Sufficient: Greater than 4 ng/mL.
How can I treat the folate deficiency anemia?
To treat folate deficiency anemia effectively, follow the given points.
- Consume foods rich in folate.
- Can take vitamin B9 supplements, also known as folic acid.
- Manage digestive disorders like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease.
How much folate do I need ?
Folate is naturally present in the food, while folic acid is found in enriched foods and supplements. The daily intake of folate is related to age and dietary sources.
- 1 mcg folate from food = 1 mcg dietary folate equivalent (DFE).
- 1 mcg folic acid from fortified foods or supplements with food = 1.67 mcg DFE.
- 1 mcg folic acid from supplements on an empty stomach = 2 mcg DFE.
For the intake of folate on a daily basis, it is recommended to follow the doctor’s advice.
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What are the foods rich in folate?
Here is the list of foods that are rich in folate, including:
- Fruits: Citrus fruits, grapefruit, papayas, grapes, bananas, strawberries, raspberries, and cantaloupe.
- Nuts: Peanuts, walnuts, and sunflower seeds.
- Meat: Beef liver.
- Green vegetables: Spinach and other leafy greens, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, avocado, and broccoli.
- Fortified foods: Cereal, rice, bread, pasta, flour, and cornmeal.
- Beans and legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, black-eyed peas, and kidney beans
Prevention
How can I prevent folate deficiency anemia?
To prevent folate deficiency anemia, follow these steps:
- Follow a nutritious diet, especially folate-based food.
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Get medical consultation as soon as possible.
By taking these steps, you can maintain adequate folate levels and reduce the risk of developing folate deficiency anemia.
Keypoints
Folate is a vital nutrient for red blood cell production. The deficiency of the folate can lead to megaloblastic anemia and also reduce the number of red blood cells in the blood. If diagnosed early and treated effectively with folate supplements or dietary changes, symptoms typically improve within a few weeks to months. Most individuals respond well to treatment and can recover fully without long-term complications.
FAQ’s
Q: What is the difference between folic acid and folate?
A: Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 found in foods, while folic acid is the synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods.
Q: What is the most common cause of folate deficiency anemia?
A: Most folate-deficiency anemia is caused by a lack of folic acid in the diet. Leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, and whole grains are natural sources of folic acid.
Q: Does folate increase hemoglobin?
A: As the folate helps to produce the RBCs, therefore it also helps to increase the hemoglobin in the body.
Q: What causes folate deficiency?
A: Inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption due to digestive disorders, excessive alcohol use, and certain medications can be responsible for the cause of folate deficiency.
Q: Where is folate absorbed?
A: Folate is absorbed primarily in the small intestine, particularly the duodenum and jejunum.
Q: What is a good level of folate?
A: A good level of folate in the blood is typically greater than 4 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).
