What Happens If Man Are Low On Folic Acid? Importance Of Folic Acid For Men

Folic acid, which is referred to as vitamin B9, is essential for human health. Although often linked to prenatal care for women, its importance for men is frequently neglected. This vital vitamin plays a key role in numerous bodily functions, including cell repair and heart health.

Folic acid is essential for preserving good health, from boosting cognitive function and cardiovascular health to increasing muscular growth and fertility. It aids in regulating vital biological functions essential to men's physical and mental well-being. Let's explore the many advantages of folic acid for males in this blog, as well as why including it in your diet is crucial for long-term health. 

Table Of Contents

1. What Happens If A Man Is Low In Folic Acid?

2. Is Folic Acid Good For Men? 5 Benefits of Folic Acid For Men

3. How Long Should A Man Take Folic Acid?

4. Dietitian's Recommendation

5. The Final Say

6. FAQs

7. References

What Happens If Men Are Low In Folic Acid?

Folic acid (vitamin B9) is essential for making red blood cells, repairing DNA, and supporting cell growth. When a man has low levels of folic acid, he may experience fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating due to anaemia (a condition where there aren't enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen). It can also lead to elevated levels of homocysteine, a substance linked to heart disease.

Additionally, folic acid deficiency can affect sperm quality, potentially reducing fertility. It may also weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight infections. Eating a diet low in green leafy vegetables, beans, or fortified foods is often the cause. Over time, this deficiency can contribute to serious health problems, including heart disease and neurological issues, so maintaining adequate levels is important.

Also Read: Sexual Health Benefits of Moringa: Boost Libido, Testosterone, and Performance Naturally 

Is Folic Acid Good For Men? 5 Benefits of Folic Acid For Men

Yes, indeed, folic acid is good for men. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, a water-soluble B vitamin found naturally in foods. Red blood cell formation, amino acid metabolism, and DNA synthesis all depend on folate. 

Unlike naturally occurring folate, folic acid is found in fortified foods and supplements and here is how it impacts men:

1. Cardiovascular Health

Folic acid, an essential B vitamin (B9), assists in controlling homocysteine concentrations in the bloodstream and significantly improves cardiovascular health in males. Elevated homocysteine, an amino acid, is recognised as a risk factor for heart disorders because it can harm blood vessels and encourage the formation of clots.

By converting homocysteine into innocuous compounds, folic acid lowers homocysteine levels and increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis. Folic acid is necessary for preserving ideal circulatory function because of its heart-protective properties. 

Furthermore, by maintaining the healthy operation of the vascular system, folic acid promotes the synthesis of red blood cells and enhances blood flow. It helps lower inflammation and oxidative stress, two of the main causes of cardiovascular issues in men.

2. Fertility and Reproductive Health

Folic acid can enhance male fertility by improving sperm count, motility, and quality. Supporting DNA synthesis and repair guarantees that sperm cells are of superior quality and have few genetic defects. This is due to the link between zinc and testosterone. Folic acid works synergistically with zinc to optimise spermatogenesis (sperm production), making it vital for men planning to start a family as it increases the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.

Folic acid also helps maintain hormonal balance, which is necessary for the best possible reproductive health. It aids in controlling the synthesis of testosterone, a hormone essential for libido and sperm production. Consuming foods high in folic acid, like green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and fortified grains, can provide the nutrients required to improve fertility, especially for those dealing with infertility issues and promote general reproductive wellness in males.

Also Read: 4 Major Black Seed Oil Benefits For Men’s Health And Vitality 

3. Cognitive Function

Adequate folic acid levels contribute to improved brain function. It supports the production of neurotransmitters and might lower the chances of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s. 

In order to preserve healthy brain cells and stop cognitive decline, folic acid plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis and repair. Sufficient folic acid levels are especially helpful in lowering the risk of age-related memory loss, increasing mental acuity, and improving cognitive function in general. 

4. Mental Health

Folic acid promotes the synthesis of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, and it helps regulate mood. Depression and other mood disorders have often been associated with folate deficiency. 

Folic acid also lowers homocysteine levels, which is an amino acid that is associated with an increased risk of mental health conditions like depression and cognitive dysfunction when present in high amounts. By lowering homocysteine, folic acid promotes blood flow to the brain, lowers inflammation, and guards against oxidative stress, all of which contribute to mental health preservation.

5. Muscle Development and Energy

Men engaged in physical training or sports can benefit from folic acid’s role in red blood cell production. This function improves oxygen transport and energy metabolism, enhancing performance and recovery. 

This enhanced oxygen transfer improves overall performance, decreases muscle fatigue, and increases endurance during exercises or physical tasks. Folic acid also helps with protein metabolism, which supports muscle growth and repair—two processes essential for strength and muscle development. 

Also Read: 11 Health Benefits Of Folic Acid And DHA During Pregnancy With RDA Guidelines!

How Long Should A Man Take Folic Acid?

The duration depends on individual needs. Healthy men should get about 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, either from food or supplements. 

Your doctor may recommend supplements if you have specific health conditions, like anaemia or high homocysteine levels. Men trying to improve fertility may also take folic acid for several months, as it helps with sperm quality. Taking folic acid for extended periods is safe at recommended doses because it’s water-soluble—excess amounts are excreted in urine.

However, prolonged high doses (over 1,000 micrograms) without medical advice can mask vitamin B12 deficiency, which can harm the nervous system. Eating a balanced diet rich in folate-containing foods can also help maintain healthy levels without long-term supplementation.

Also Read: Sesame Seeds Benefits For Males’ Sexual Health & Fertility

Dietitian's Recommendation

Men should aim for 400 micrograms of folic acid daily to support red blood cell production, DNA repair, and heart health. Include folate-rich foods like spinach, kale, broccoli, beans, lentils, and citrus fruits in your diet. Fortified cereals and whole grains are excellent additional sources.

If you're trying to boost fertility or have a medical condition like high homocysteine levels, consider a folic acid supplement as advised by your doctor. 

Avoid exceeding 1,000 micrograms daily unless prescribed, as this can mask vitamin B12 deficiency. A balanced diet with diverse whole foods ensures optimal folic acid levels for long-term health.

                                                                        Dt. Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say

Folic acid is not just a “woman’s vitamin.” Its impact on men’s health is profound, influencing everything from cardiovascular health to cognitive function. By understanding its benefits, incorporating folate-rich foods, and considering supplements when necessary, men can harness the full potential of this essential nutrient. 

Remember, balance is key, and professional guidance is invaluable in tailoring folic acid intake to individual needs.

FAQs

1. What is folic acid, and why is it important for men?

Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9, crucial for producing red blood cells, repairing DNA, and reducing homocysteine levels, which helps protect the heart. It also supports healthy brain function and fertility by improving sperm quality. Men need it for overall cell health and to prevent deficiencies that may lead to anaemia or cardiovascular risks.

2. What are the symptoms of low folic acid in men?

Symptoms of folic acid deficiency in men include fatigue, weakness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and pale skin due to anaemia. It may also increase homocysteine levels, raising heart disease risk. Other signs include a weakened immune system, poor digestion, and reduced fertility. Severe cases can lead to neurological issues like numbness or depression.

3. Is it safe for men to take folic acid supplements daily?

Yes, it’s safe for men to take folic acid supplements daily at the recommended dose of 400 micrograms. Excess folic acid is excreted in urine since it’s water-soluble. However, avoid taking more than 1,000 micrograms daily unless advised by a doctor, as it may mask vitamin B12 deficiency.

4. Should men take folic acid if they don’t have a deficiency?

Even without a deficiency, men benefit from folic acid as it supports overall health, including heart, brain, and fertility. A balanced diet rich in folate is usually enough. Supplements may be useful for specific goals, like improving fertility or addressing medical conditions, but they should be taken under medical supervision.
 

References

• https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/conditions/mens-health/folic-acid-for-men/
• https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Folate-HealthProfessional/
• https://www.blackmores.com.au/mens-health/why-men-need-folic-acid-too?srsltid=AfmBOors94jLIgdBYYJ8MzuYXS_58pcBbmJINmr6nQoxhfjhTMREcC0s
• https://natalist.com/blogs/learn/4-folic-acid-benefits-for-men?srsltid=AfmBOopTdk63-lD860SLdH5Ftizq_s1XsJ0bhvkFBqs-K_nW7Rn-dlGb
• https://biogena.com/en/knowledge/guide/folic-acid-for-men_bba_4724113

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