Folate (Red Cell)

Vitamin B12 and folate are both part of the B complex of vitamins. Folate is found in leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, dry beans and peas, liver, and yeast. Vitamin B12 is found in animal products such as red meat, fish, poultry, milk, and eggs. In recent years fortified cereals, breads, and other grain products has also become an important dietary sources of folate (identified as “folic acid” on nutritional labels).
Both are necessary for normal red cell formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 is also important for nerve health, while folate is necessary for cell division such as is seen in a foetus during pregnancy.
A deficiency in either vitamin B12 or folate can lead to macrocytic anaemia, where red cells are reduced but macrocytic (abnormally large).
Vitamin B12 deficiency can also result in varying degrees of neuropathy, nerve damage that can cause tingling and numbness in the patient’s hands and feet. In severe vitamin B12 deficiency, a more serious nerve damage may occur known as subacute combined degeneration of the cord or SACD, where severe weakness and incoordination may occur. Subtle deterioration in eyesight and mental ability may occur.
Folate deficiency in early pregnancy can cause neural tube defects such as spina bifida in a growing foetus.