Disease Prevention: Broadening the Definition of Folate Nutrition

An adequate dietary intake of folate has traditionally been defined by the amount of folate required to prevent anemia. However, a rapidly expanding body of research has suggested broader roles for folate in the preservation of health. Based on scientific evidence that has found this B vitamin to be associated with risk of neural tube defects, cardiovascular disease, and colorectal cancer, many experts now believe that optimal levels of folate intake are substantially higher than was previously advised. The recently proposed Dietary Reference Intakes by the Institute of Medicine recommend that all adults consume 400 micrograms of folate per day. Intervention trials presently underway will provide further guidance on optimal levels of folate intake in disease prevention. This paper presents a brief review of the research that has lead to the expanding interest in folate and disease, as well as information on food sources of folate that is useful when counseling patients about their folate intake.

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