Folic acid tablets: when they are taken and what they do for hair growth

Folic acid is an important form of vitamin B9. The body needs it to make new cells, prepare DNA and form red blood cells. It has special importance during pregnancy. It is also mentioned in connection with hair growth, but when there is no folic acid deficiency, it cannot be said with certainty that taking it will make hair grow faster.

Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9, found in some foods. Folic acid is the form used in supplements and fortified foods. Folate plays a role in many processes, such as making DNA, cell division and producing healthy red blood cells. The body therefore needs to get enough folate regularly. Green leafy vegetables, pulses, legumes, citrus fruits and some fortified cereals are good sources of folate.

Folic acid tablets are mainly used to make up a folate deficiency in the body. A deficiency can affect the formation of healthy red blood cells and can lead to megaloblastic anaemia. Folic acid is also important in pregnancy, because adequate folate is needed for the early development of the foetus.

The dose of folic acid is not the same for everyone. The right dose can vary with age, state of health, diet and the reason for taking the supplement. It is therefore better to take supplements on a doctor's advice.

Folate deficiency can cause problems such as fatigue, weakness or anaemia. But not everyone needs a folic acid supplement. If a proper diet provides enough folate, the need for a separate supplement is decided only after looking at the circumstances.

The cells at the roots of hair divide actively, which is why folic acid is linked with hair growth. If someone has a genuine folate deficiency, correcting it can help the normal functioning of the body's cells. But if there is no deficiency, it cannot be said with certainty that taking more folic acid will make hair grow faster.

Hair fall can have many causes, including genetic factors, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiency, stress, illness, certain medicines and scalp problems. Understanding the real cause of hair fall is therefore more important.

Folate can also be obtained from food. A balanced diet can include green leafy vegetables, spinach, fenugreek, masoor dal, chickpeas, kidney beans, peas, oranges and other citrus fruits. The need for folate is not the same in every person. In some circumstances doctors may advise supplements, especially when there is a deficiency or the body's requirement has increased.

Folic acid in the recommended amount is generally well tolerated. But taking a higher dose on one's own is not advisable. In particular, large amounts of folic acid can to some extent mask anaemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. It is therefore advisable to consult a doctor before taking supplements for a long period. If hair is falling, checking the cause may be more useful than simply taking folic acid.

In sum, folic acid is an important form of vitamin B9, needed for building cells, making DNA and for red blood cells. Folic acid supplements can be beneficial when there is a folate deficiency. But it is not right to regard folic acid as an effective remedy for hair growth for everyone. If hair keeps falling, it is better to understand the cause and seek expert advice if needed, rather than take supplements on one's own.