Folic acid or folate, is a form of vitamin B (B9), is water-soluble and is found in naturally in leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, beans and whole grains, liver, and to a lesser extent in meat poultry and pork.
Already confirmed that the intake of folic acid during pregnancy promotes the proper development of the neural tube in the baby that is developing. It is also known that adequate levels of folic acid in the body of men and women contribute to reproductive health.
What we do not know with certainty so far, is its role in the brains of adults, but have been associated in some investigations, levels of folate with Alzheimer's disease.
A study conducted in South Korea evaluated to people over 65, who are the people most likely to develop dementia.
The follow-up lasted two years and measured the levels of folic acid, vitamin B12 and homocysteine to begin the study and periodically during the testing period.
At the end of the study found that 45 people had developed dementia, of whom 34 had Alzheimer's disease, 7 suffered from vascular dementia and 4 other types of dementia.
In establishing the relationship between the levels of folate and disease, it was observed that people had to begin the study of vitamin deficiency had a 3.5 times higher risk of suffering from dementia than other individuals.
It was also noted that dementia was more common among older evaluated, which had less education and the most inactive.
But the finding, we should differentiate between the natural intake of folic acid supplementation and consumption, since the latter may lead to a surplus and has been associated in previous studies that excessive vitamin can also cause dementia.
The research demonstrates the importance of leading a healthy, balanced diet in which no relevance or take the excesses or deficits. Moreover, it is essential to maintain physical activity with the passage of time, because as has been said in the study, physical inactivity increases the chances of suffering from dementia, and as we all know, is a risk factor for many other diseases.
It is important to note that due to aging, the elderly population is the most vulnerable to suffer a deterioration in their mental health, and at the same time, are seniors which gradually decreases, intake of fruits and vegetables.
Therefore, as far as possible, we must incorporate foods rich in vitamins and minerals to the diet of the elderly and report on its importance. Not forgetting the role of physical activity on the health and vitality of the older population.
Let us not forget that maintaining an adequate mental health could prevent the emergence of so many suffering of greater severity, which are often prevalent among the elderly, such as falls and fractures or depression.
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