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The Benefits of Folic Acid on Healthy Ageing

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in numerous bodily functions. It is essential for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, making it a foundational supplement for overall health. This vitamin is particularly crucial during periods of rapid growth, such as during pregnancy and infancy, but its importance extends far into adulthood and older age. As we age, maintaining optimal health becomes increasingly important, and folic acid can be a key player in supporting healthy ageing.

What is Folic Acid

Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, a B vitamin that occurs naturally in various foods. Folate is found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fortified foods. In contrast, folic acid is often used in supplements and fortified food products due to its stability and bioavailability. The body converts folic acid into its active form, tetrahydrofolate, which is vital for several physiological processes, including amino acid metabolism and the production of red blood cells.

Folic acid is particularly well-known for its role in preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy, but its benefits extend beyond reproductive health. Research indicates that adequate folic acid intake may contribute to a range of health benefits, particularly as we age.

How does Folic Acid Support Healthy Ageing

As we grow older, the body's ability to absorb nutrients can diminish, making it essential to ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals. Folic acid plays a significant role in several areas that contribute to healthy ageing:

  1. Cognitive Function: Studies suggest that folic acid may help maintain cognitive function as we age. It is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which are essential for communication between brain cells. Adequate levels of folate have been associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
  2. Heart Health: Folic acid helps lower homocysteine levels, an amino acid linked to an increased risk of heart disease. By reducing homocysteine, folic acid can support cardiovascular health, making it a crucial component in a heart-healthy diet as we age.
  3. Mood Regulation: Folic acid may also play a role in mood regulation. Low levels of folate have been associated with an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Ensuring adequate folic acid intake can support mental health and emotional well-being.
  4. Cellular Repair and Regeneration: Folic acid is vital for DNA synthesis and repair, which is crucial for cellular health. As we age, the body's ability to repair damaged cells declines, making folic acid a key player in maintaining cellular integrity and function.
  5. Immune Function: A robust immune system is essential for healthy ageing. Folic acid supports the production of white blood cells, which are vital for fighting infections and diseases. Adequate folate levels can help bolster the immune response, promoting overall health.

Top 5 Benefits of Folic Acid

  1. Supports Cognitive Function: Helps maintain brain health and reduces the risk of cognitive decline.
  2. Promotes Heart Health: Lowers homocysteine levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
  3. Regulates Mood: Contributes to emotional well-being and may reduce the risk of depression.
  4. Aids in Cellular Repair: Essential for DNA synthesis and repair, promoting cellular health.
  5. Boosts Immune Function: Supports the production of white blood cells, enhancing immune response.

How Much Folic Acid Should I Take

The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for folic acid varies by age, sex, and life stage. For most adults, the RDA is 400 micrograms (mcg) per day. However, women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant are advised to take 600 mcg daily to support fetal development. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage based on individual health needs and circumstances.

Folic acid is generally safe when taken within recommended limits, but excessive intake from supplements can lead to adverse effects. Therefore, it's crucial to balance dietary sources of folate with any supplementation.

What Should Be Taken Alongside Folic Acid

To maximize the benefits of folic acid, it is often recommended to take it alongside other B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12. These vitamins work synergistically in various metabolic processes, including the metabolism of homocysteine. A holistic approach to supplementation can enhance overall health and well-being.

Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is essential for optimal nutrient absorption. Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries and nuts, can also support healthy ageing by combating oxidative stress.

For those looking for a comprehensive approach to supplementation, products that combine folic acid with other essential vitamins and minerals can be beneficial. For example, consider exploring foundational supplements designed for both men and women that provide a holistic blend of nutrients to support healthy ageing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, folic acid is a vital nutrient that offers numerous benefits for healthy ageing. From supporting cognitive function to promoting heart health, its role in overall wellness cannot be overstated. By ensuring adequate intake through diet and supplementation, individuals can take proactive steps toward maintaining their health and vitality as they age.

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Active Ingredients by Product

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Amino Acids

Amino acids are molecules used by all living things to make proteins. They are key in various bodily functions, from protein synthesis to tissue repair to nutrient absorption.​

Cysteine HCI - A Healing Non-Essential Amino Acid

A non-essential amino acid that aids the healing process, Cysteine has been used in medicine for more than 30 years. The nutrient replenishes intracellular levels of the natural antioxidant glutathione, which is depleted by age and illness, restoring cells’ ability to fight damage from reactive oxygen species.​ Read more on Cysteine HCI here.

L-Glutamine - An Abundant Nonessential Amino Acid

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body - and is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acid. Glutamine supplementation has been shown to enhance immune system function and result in a lower level of infection. In conjunction with Cysteine, Glutamine supplementation has been shown to enhance glutathione stores. Read more on L-Glutamine here.

N-Acetyl-L-Carnitine HCL - An Anti-Ageing Amino Acid

N-Acetyl-L-Carnitine HCL is a form of carnitine that plays a role in energy metabolism, protecting against and repairing existing age-induced mitochondrial DNA damage, boosting mitochondrial function and improving energy turnover. Read more on N-Acetyl-L-Carnitine HCL here.

Arginine - A Multi-Tasking Amino Acid

Arginine is an amino acid, which plays an important role in the synthesis of proteins and cell division. Many studies have linked arginine to enhanced immunity and the improved release of the human growth hormone (HGH), which repairs and regenerates the body’s tissue during sleep. Read more on Arginine here.

L-Citrulline - A Nonessential Animo Acid

Citrulline is an energy-boosting amino acid that improves endurance, cognitive function and blood pressure. It improves the ammonia recycling process and nitric oxide production, which helps blood vessels relax and improves blood flow, all of which improves performance, energy and endurance. Read more on L-Citrulline here.

Taurine (synthetic) - The ‘Wonder Molecule’

An amino acid found most commonly in meat, fish and dairy products, Taurine supports the immune system, the nervous system and healthy muscle function –improving exercise performance, reducing fatigue and increasing fat burning. Taurine also supports insulin health and is a potent brain nutrient. Read more on Taurine here.

Lysine - An Essential Collagen-Producing Amino Acid

Essential in the production of collagen, which supports the growth, repair and maintenance of healthy skin, muscles and connective tissue. Lysine sustains youthful levels of collagen in the skin, and is required to produce elastin. Read more on Lysine here.

Glycine - A Powerhouse Antioxidant

One of three essential amino acids that make up the body’s powerhouse antioxidant, Glutathione – Glycine has been shown to protect DNA and reduce inflammation in the body. Read more on Glycine here.

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Vitamins

Vitamins are essential micronutrients. They each work to keep the body function properly – from protecting against infections to helping your body get energy from food and helping your blood clot properly.

Vitamin A - The All-Rounder

Vitamin A is known to contribute to healthy skin, improved cognitive function, healthy vision and a strengthened immune system. The multifunctional vitamin also acts as an antioxidant, helping to reduce cellular, molecular and tissue damage caused by free radicals. Read more on Vitamin A here.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) - The Energy Yielding Nutrient

Vitamin B1, otherwise known as Thiamine, is an essential vitamin involved in maintaining an efficient, energy-yielding metabolism, a resilient nervous system, healthy cardiovascular system and balanced psychological function. Read more on Vitamin B1 here.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) - The Brainpower Nutrient

Vitamin B5, otherwise known as Pantothenic Acid, is one of the essential nutrients needed to reduce tiredness and fatigue and improve mental performance. It contributes to the structure and function of brain cells and has an essential role in the creation of the neurotransmitters. Read more on Vitamin B5 here.

Vitamin B6 - The Hormone Support Vitamin

Vitamin B6 is an essential B vitamin known to support the healthy regulation of hormonal activity, support a strong immune system and keep tiredness and fatigue at bay. Vitamin B6 plays a role in protein metabolism and helps support a healthy function of the nervous system.​ Read more on Vitamin B6 here.

Biotin - The Skin and Hair Saviour

Biotin is a B vitamin and healthy skin, hair, and nails powerhouse. Biotin is also essential to the conversion of food into energy – reducing tiredness and fatigue, supporting balanced psychological function and healthy mucous membranes. Read more on Biotin here.

Folate (Vitamin B9) - The Body Support Vitamin

Folate is essential to the production of red and white blood cells, and to the conversion of carbohydrates into energy. Adequate vitamin B9 intake is extremely important during periods of rapid growth such as pregnancy, infancy, and adolescence. It is also vital for psychological function and a healthy immune system.​
Read more on Folate here.

Vitamin C - The Essential Nutrient

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient and an excellent antioxidant in the body. It is vital to the production and maintenance of collagen, stimulation of adrenal function and stress management. Vitamin C has been shown to stimulate the immune system by boosting the activity of white blood cells.​ Read more on Vitamin C here.

Vitamin D3 - The Fat-Soluble Vitamin

Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble vitamin essential to normal growth and development. Its role in the absorption of calcium is key to a healthy neuromuscular system, normal blood clotting, and heart function. Read more on Vitamin D3 here.

Vitamin E - The Antioxidant Vitamin

Vitamin E is primarily known as a powerful antioxidant with immune-boosting benefits, but it also protects against cognitive decline and memory loss by protecting cells from oxidative stress.​ Read more on Vitamin E here.

Coenzyme Q10 - A Powerful Antioxidant

A powerful, fat-soluble antioxidant and anti-inflammatory produced within the body, Coenzyme Q10 is key in sustaining health and energy, but levels of the nutrient decline with age. Studies have confirmed that, due to its fat-soluble nature, the bioavailability of Coenzyme Q10 is greatly increased by its suspension in oil.​ Read more on Coenzyme Q10 here.

Lutein - An Essential for Ocular Support

A natural carotenoid closely related to Vitamin A, Lutein is an antioxidant known to support ocular health. Research shows Lutein can play a key role in protecting the retina and lens from free radicals, supporting overall eye health and vision. Read more on Lutein here.

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Minerals

Minerals are elements that come from soil and water. They are necessary for 3 key reasons: building strong bones and teeth, controlling body fluids inside and outside cells, and turning the food you eat into energy.

Selenium - The Hormonal Balance Supporter

Selenium plays a critical role in reproduction, thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis and protection from infection. The mineral also plays a vital role in boosting antioxidant activity in the body and providing protection against free radical damage.​​ Read more on Selenium here.

Zinc - The Immune System Supporter

Zinc improves immune resilience by regulating the function of white blood cells and helping to curtail the progression of viral cold and flu symptoms. Zinc is also an important nutrient for healthy growth and development, muscle repair, DNA synthesis, fertility, reproduction and sexual function.​ Read more on Zinc here.

Magnesium - The Anti-Stress Mineral

Magnesium, in the highly bioavailable form of Magnesium Malate, is a natural tranquiliser known to relax skeletal muscles and smooth muscles of blood vessels and the gastrointestinal tract. Thanks to this function, Magnesium may also be helpful for nervousness, anxiety, low energy and muscle cramps. Read more on Magnesium Malate here.

Iodine - The Thyroid-Supporting Nutrient

Iodine’s most important role is to ensure healthy thyroid function as it helps to regulate the production of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). It also supports cognitive function, a strong nervous system and a healthy, energy-yielding metabolism. Read more on Iodine (from potassium iodide) here.

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Botanical Extracts

Botanical extracts are concentrated substances derived from plants, containing beneficial compounds that support various aspects of health.​

Ashwagandha - The Mental Performance-Supporting Herb

A popular Ayurvedic herb and adaptogen, Ashwagandha contributes to increased mental performance and focus. An ally during menopause, it helps address menopause-related depression and mood swings. When taken regularly, Ashwagandha can also help reduce anxiety, by boosting the production of GABA – an important natural tranquiliser in the brain. Read more on Ashwagandha here.

Sage - The Nutrient-Rich Herb

A common herb, Sage is known to improve brain function, support digestive health and provide metabolic support. During menopause, Sage is known to help alleviate associated menopausal symptoms. Read more on Sage here.

Turmeric (root) Extract - The Anti-Inflammatory Spice

A spice used in India for thousands of years in cooking and herbal medicine, Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial effects. It also supports the liver and detoxification pathways. Read more on Turmeric Extract here.

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Omega 3’s

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that play a crucial role in brain function, heart health and reducing inflammation.​

Flaxseed Oil - A Rich Source of Essential Fatty Acids

Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation in all systems, increase the radiance and elasticity of the skin and boost the immune system. Read more on Flaxseed Oil here.