Folic acid supplementation: some practical aspects

Abstract

Since 1956, when Harman first postulated the free radical theory of aging, numerous studies have been carried out to test the protective action of antioxidants. One of these protective compounds used in antioxidant therapy is folic acid (FA). Folate deficiency can lead to several pathologies and its protective role is very well known. Because the negative effects of the synthetic form on the metabolism of folates and the controversy about the role of folic acid in cancer, the question is whether or not folic acid is good for everyone. In this paper we summarize some aspects of the biochemistry of folic acid and we show some precautions that should be taken into consideration when supplementing with this compound.