During a family gathering, Aunt Li suddenly fell to the ground, and the family called emergency services. After going through a series of first aid measures in the hospital, the doctor told them that fortunately, Aunt Li avoided a possible heart attack. During the subsequent rehabilitation guidance, the doctor recommended a surprisingly simple supplement – folic acid. Why is this vitamin, which is often associated with the health of pregnant women, included in the treatment of heart disease?
This case aroused great interest in Aunt Li's family. They learned that folic acid is not only essential for pregnant women, it also plays an integral role in maintaining overall cardiovascular health. Since then, Aunt Li has insisted on daily folic acid supplementation, which not only improves her heart disease symptoms, but also improves her overall vitality.
Folic Acid and Cardiovascular Health: A Tiny Guard Against Heart Attack and Stroke
Folic acid, a water-soluble B vitamin (vitamin B9), plays a key role in metabolic processes, especially in the synthesis of nucleic acids and amino acids and cell division. These biochemical processes are essential for maintaining the health of the heart and the circulatory system as a whole.
1. Lowers homocysteine levels
Studies have shown that folic acid is effective in reducing homocysteine (HCY) levels in the blood. Homocysteine is considered an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. High levels of HCY are directly associated with impaired vascular endothelial function and increased arteriosclerosis. By supplementing with folic acid, HCY can be converted to beneficial amino acids, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
2. Improves vascular function
Folic acid supplementation not only protects the heart by lowering HCY levels, but may also directly affect the function and structure of blood vessels. Studies have shown that adequate amounts of folic acid can promote the health of vascular endothelial cells, which cover the inner surface of blood vessels and are related to the relaxation and contraction of blood vessels, which in turn affects blood pressure. Healthy blood vessel function means a lower risk of heart attack and stroke.
3. Maintain heart rhythm
Abnormalities in cardiac rhythm are often closely associated with cardiac events. Folic acid also has a positive effect on the normalization of the electrical activity of the heart. By participating in intracellular signaling and electrolyte balance, folic acid helps maintain the heart's normal rhythm and prevent the occurrence of arrhythmias.
Folic acid and nervous system health: guardians from memory to mood
After discussing the contribution of folic acid to cardiovascular health, its role in the maintenance of nervous system health should also not be overlooked. Folic acid is not only a key element in cell production and repair, but also an important supporter of nerve conduction and brain function.
1. Promotes brain health and cognitive function
Folic acid plays a vital role in neuronal development and function. Folic acid deficiency directly affects the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and serotonin, which are essential for mood regulation and cognitive function. Studies have shown that proper folate levels are associated with improved memory, attention, and information processing speed. In addition, folic acid reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, by lowering homocysteine levels in the body.
2. Reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases
The health of the nervous system is likewise affected by homocysteine levels. In several longitudinal studies, folic acid supplementation was significantly associated with a reduction in the incidence of dementia in older adults. In addition, adequate folic acid intake is equally important to prevent cognitive decline after stroke. By improving vascular health and promoting good blood circulation, folic acid helps maintain the functional status of the brain and peripheral nerve tissue.
Folic Acid and Overall Health: The All-Around Benefit
Folic acid, as a key nutrient, plays an important role in several systems in the body. From boosting the immune system to promoting cell growth and maintenance, the effects of folic acid are broad and far-reaching.
1. Strengthens the immune system
Vitamin B9 (folic acid) is essential for maintaining the normal function of the immune system. It is involved in the production of white blood cells and red blood cells, which are key to the immune response. Studies have shown that moderate intake of folic acid can help enhance the response of immune cells, thereby improving the ability to fight infection.
2. Promotes cell production and repair
Folic acid plays a central role in DNA synthesis and repair, as well as in the healthy maintenance of rapidly dividing cells. This function is especially important for the body's recovery and repair, for example, during wound healing, folic acid helps to produce new cells, speeding up the healing process. For individuals experiencing physical or psychological stress, folic acid can help maintain cellular integrity and promote overall health.
In summary, the benefits of folic acid are not limited to preventing birth defects or maintaining cardiovascular health, it also plays a key role in several aspects such as nervous system function, immune health, and cell growth. By supplementing with folic acid, we can not only improve specific health conditions, but also support the overall health of the body. Therefore, it is undoubtedly a wise choice to incorporate folic acid into our daily diet reasonably.