A vitamin found in food
Folic acid is a form of vitamin B9, just like folates, which are grouped under a basic chemical molecule: tetrahydrofolic acid.
It’s an essential nutrient for the human body that participates in:
- the metabolism of amino acids and the production of DNA, essential for rapidly renewing cells, such as red blood cells
- renewal of integuments (skin, nails, hair)
- proper functioning of the nervous system
- normal fetal development for the formation of its nervous system.
To provide your body with enough vitamin B9, you can regularly consume cruciferous vegetables like watercress and cabbages, nuts (hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts), legumes (chickpeas, lentils), fruits (banana, plum, kiwi), as well as animal liver.
All these foods are important sources of vitamin B9.
A dietary supplement with multiple benefits
While folates are a natural form of vitamin B9, folic acid refers to the synthetic form found in supplements.
These supplements are notably used during pregnancy, when the recommended intake for pregnant women reaches 400 micrograms per day, to aid fetal development and maternal tissue growth.
Folic acid may play a role in preventing cardiovascular diseases, as well as some digestive cancers and breast cancer.
Among its other benefits, folic acid intake may help reduce fatigue, prevent depression, and contribute to skin beauty due to its role in cell division of the epidermal cells.
But what about its effect on hair?
Read also | A pharmacist’s advice for choosing your folic acid
Strengthens the scalp and combats hair loss
Folic acid contributes to DNA production and cell renewal. Thus, it promotes the repair of scalp cells and prevents their weakening.
Moreover, vitamin B9 contributes to the renewal of integuments (nails, hair), thus helping to combat damaged hair and prevent breakage, even hair loss.
Promotes hair growth
Folic acid promotes the renewal of red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport.
By increasing oxygenation at the scalp level, growth is accelerated and hair growth is healthier.
Improves hair appearance
Vitamin B9 deficiencies are associated with dull and limp hair. Supplementation helps avoid deficiency and restores a normal hair appearance, making it stronger and shinier.
Furthermore, vitamin B9 contributes to better nutrient absorption, which can potentially play a role in the strength and shine of hair.
A study showed an increase in hair density, shine, among women who were supplemented with a combination of vitamins and minerals, including folic acid.
For all the benefits of this vitamin B9, further scientific research is warranted.
