Folic Acid Deficiency Symptoms: Supplement the Deficiency Before It’s Too Late

Published on: 29 November 2017 Last Updated on: 02 March 2020

The human body needs to continuously take supplements in order to function optimally as not all vitamins and minerals are taken in recommended daily amounts. One such very important vitamin is folate or vitamin B9 or folic acid. In order to prevent further complications brought about by the lack of certain vitamins, it is wise to be proactive and identify folic acid deficiency symptoms at early onset.

Folic acid vs. folate

Both folic acid and folate are forms of the water-soluble vitamin B. Folate, otherwise known as vitamin B9, naturally occurs in foods, while folic acid is the synthetic folate compound that is used in vitamin supplements because of its increased stability.

Folate has been named after “folium,” Latin for “leaves,” because they were first isolated from spinach. Also, folate is the generic term used for both the naturally occurring folate that is found in foods and the synthetic form, folic acid.

The vitamin B complex nutrients are needed by the body in small amounts in order to function and stay healthy. In fact, according to recent medical journals, folate is involved in a number of intracellular reactions as a cofactor.

Deficiency potential

Research has found that the potential for folate deficiency is high or very common. In fact, it can be a serious problem if left untreated. In a 2006 USDA analysis of obtained data, most people in the US obtained adequate amounts of vitamin B9. But there is still a risk for some groups obtaining insufficient amounts.

Because folic acid is water-soluble, excess amounts of the vitamin in the body is excreted via human urine. This means that the human body needs a constant supply of this vitamin because the body cannot store it. And the recommended daily dose of folate is 0.4mg/d, which has been established for 20 years.

Uses of vitamin B9 in the body

Vitamin B9 is vital for synthesis and repair of DNA and RNA, the body’s genetic material. These vitamins also aid in the rapid cell division and growth and are important in the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow.

But folate is particularly important for pregnant women to avoid major birth defects in the baby’s brain or spines, such as neural tube defects, including Spina Bifida and anencephaly. Combined with vitamin B12, it controls the blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine, which is associated with certain chronic conditions such as heart disease.

Folate is also used to prevent eye disease age-related macular degeneration (AMD), to reduce signs of aging, to treat sleep problems, depression, AIDS, and inherited disease called Fragile-X syndrome. It is also used for age-related hearing loss, Alzheimer’s disease, and memory loss.

Folic acid deficiency symptoms

It is widely known that prevention is better than cure. So in order to avoid any further complication due to the lack of vitamin B9 in the body, here are the most common folic acid deficiency symptoms to watch out for, however subtle they may

be:

Poor immune function, which includes frequently getting sick
Chronic fatigue/low energy; also include chronic fatigue syndrome
Poor digestion, including bloating, IBS, and constipation
Early appearance of gray hair
Pale skin
Mouth sores and tender, swollen tongue
Developmental problems during pregnancy and infancy, consisting of stunted growth
Mood change often, such as irritability
Anemia (severe cases)

Causes of folic acid deficiency

Diet. One of the most common causes is poor diet. Folate naturally occurs in a wide array of foods, and among its richest sources include dark green leafy vegetables (such as spinach, asparagus, and broccoli), beef liver and kidney, yeast, and beans. Among other sources are eggs, beet, milk and other dairy products, and whole wheat bread.
Eating overcooked fruits and vegetables. Folate is easily destroyed by heat.
Diseases such as severe kidney problems requiring dialysis, certain types of cancers, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease affect the absorption of the vitamin in the GI tract
Too much alcohol consumption increases folate excretion via the urine
During pregnancy, a lot of folic acids are used up by the growing baby
Side effects of medication, which includes phenytoin (Dilantin), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, methotrexate, and sulfasalazine

Diagnosis

There are exams and tests taken to confirm folate deficiency in an individual. One of these is a blood test, to check the number of red blood cells and whether the body has enough vitamin B9. This is most common among pregnant women during their prenatal check-ups. But the most common procedure is the doctor checking the patient’s history and current health condition.

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Overcoming Procrastination And Achieving Success With A Life Coach

Procrastination is a widespread issue that can lead to increased stress, missed opportunities, and a decline in overall well-being. However, a life coach can help individuals overcome this issue and realize their potential. Often, procrastinators feel overwhelmed or indecisive when they encounter their long-held goals. The human brain is designed to process concrete ideas, making it challenging to start work promising future advantages. A life coach can help them recognize that procrastination is a natural response to fears of failure, perfectionism, and commitment. In the long run, procrastination can cost you heavily. It leads to missed opportunities and hinders positive life changes. However, a life coach can help you live a more fulfilling life by recognizing the reality behind procrastination. We shall dive deeper into the effects and psychological reasons behind procrastination and how a life coach can help you overcome it. What Is Procrastination? Procrastination is delaying or postponing tasks, which can often lead to negative consequences. It's a common tendency that most people resort to at some point in their lives. According to psychologist Joseph Ferrari, approximately 20% of U.S. adults are chronic procrastinators. Even the most well-organized and committed individuals can spend hours on trivial pursuits instead of work or school-related projects. This issue can affect job performance, grades, and, ultimately, one's quality of life. However, it's essential to note that procrastination is not a serious issue but rather a common tendency. Therefore, it's not a sign of a serious problem but rather a natural human tendency that most people experience. Psychological Implications Of Procrastination Procrastination is an outcome of deep-seated psychological issues. Given below are some of the psychological reasons why one tends to procrastinate— 1. Boredom If a task appears dull or unappealing, you will procrastinate and delay its completion until later. 2. Lack Of Belief When we tend to put off tasks, it could be due to a lack of confidence in our abilities. This is a vital component of our daily functioning. When our self-efficacy is low, it can impede us from initiating or finishing tasks. 3. Anxiety And Fear Procrastination can be caused by fear. We might delay important things like medical checkups or finishing projects due to social anxiety and fear of judgment. Managing our fears is vital to avoid negative consequences and stay on track with our responsibilities. 4. Distraction Social media and other distractions can hinder our ability to focus. Procrastination has always been challenging for humans, and technology has made it even more difficult. Overcoming distractions requires awareness and self-control. 5. Obsessing Over Perfection Striving for perfection can occasionally result in unproductive delays. Therefore, individuals hold off on tasks they fear they may not excel at or may fail. They may postpone tasks until they feel motivated or develop a superior idea. How Do Life Coaches Help You Overcome Procrastination? Given below are the different approaches implemented by life coaches to help clients overcome the problem of procrastination— 1. Creating A SMART Framework Creating a SMART framework is one approach life coaches use to help clients overcome procrastination. This involves setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. By breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps and setting clear deadlines, clients are more likely to take action and avoid procrastination. Therefore, providing a structured plan helps you stay focused and motivated. 2. Using The Eisenhower Matrix Another approach employed by life coaches to address procrastination is utilizing the Eisenhower Matrix. It's a fantastic tool that can help you prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. By categorizing your tasks into different quadrants, you can manage your time efficiently and focus on what really matters. Let me tell you more about it! By prioritizing tasks effectively, you can identify which ones need immediate attention, reducing the tendency to procrastinate. Therefore, it encourages you to tackle important tasks first and delegate or eliminate less important ones, increasing productivity and decreasing procrastination. 3. Using The Pomodoro Technique The Pomodoro Technique is a method that involves breaking tasks into manageable intervals. These intervals are typically 25 minutes, called "pomodoros," followed by a short break. By working in focused bursts and rewarding oneself with breaks, you can maintain motivation and overcome the urge to procrastinate. Therefore, it helps you stay on track and complete tasks more efficiently, ultimately reducing the likelihood of procrastination. 4. Implementing The 5-Second Rule The 5-Second Rule involves taking immediate action within 5 seconds of having an impulse to do something. Furthermore, this technique can combat procrastination by training the brain to act quickly and prevent overthinking or hesitation. By implementing the 5-Second Rule, you can overcome the tendency to delay tasks and instead take immediate action. Therefore, it increases productivity and reduces procrastination. 5. Using Visualization Visualization is a powerful tool that can help combat procrastination. By imagining yourself completing a task or goal, you can increase motivation and reduce the likelihood of putting off tasks. Visualizing the desired outcome can create a sense of urgency and focus. Therefore, it makes it easier to stay on track and complete tasks efficiently. Incorporating visualization techniques into daily routines can help you overcome procrastination and increase productivity. 6. Helping With Positive Affirmation Positive affirmation is another effective strategy for reducing procrastination. Here, you must repeat positive statements to yourself, such as— "I am capable of completing tasks on time." "I can stay focused and productive." Therefore, it helps you boost your self-confidence and encourage a proactive mindset. This practice helps to counteract negative thoughts or self-doubt that often contribute to procrastination. Moreover, You can cultivate a more optimistic and determined attitude toward the work by consistently using positive affirmations. Therefore, it leads to increased motivation and a greater likelihood of completing tasks promptly. Find The Right Life Coach! Working with a life coach can be immensely beneficial for people who struggle with procrastination. Lif coaches help you set clear goals and provide support, guidance, and strategies to address underlying issues. Moreover, they help you empower and overcome procrastination to lead a more fulfilling life. Celebrating accomplishments and recognizing progress can also boost confidence. It reinforces positive behaviors, reducing the likelihood of falling back into old patterns. A life coach can help individuals cultivate essential skills and offer accountability. Therefore, it makes it easier for them to control their time and unleash their true potential. Partnering with an efficient life coach could be the first step if you want to make lasting positive changes. Read Also: Make Your Vacation Less Stressful With the Following Tricks 5 Ways College Students Can Minimize Back to School Stress Releasing Stress Even if You Don’t Leave Home

7 Health Tips For Medical Students

Being a med student is unquestionably difficult. Regardless of your interest in medicine, student life is stressful and overwhelming at times due to the hard work and excessive hours spent studying and attending hospital training rounds. And, despite the numerous benefits of being a doctor or any other healthcare professional, you must recognize that achieving any career in medicine is a difficult task. Given this, med students must learn to keep their cool. And do whatever they can to practice perseverance – which can only be possible through adopting a few healthy living habits. Unfortunately, many aspiring medical students ignore their diet. They do not take the necessary steps to improve their overall health - a giant flag on the play. Yes, it can be challenging to maintain healthy eating habits while in medical school. But living a healthy lifestyle can help you become a better student and doctor. Here Are 7 Health Tips For Medical Students: 1. Study smart Encourage a nurturing environment. You are, after all, studying to become a healthcare professional, so put focus on cultivating a collaborative and supportive environment now. You can start by being active in your studies - whether you take notes, draw diagrams, teach a classmate, or make flashcards. If you enjoy studying with others, find a group of friends you can trust and rely upon. Also, try to foster a growth mindset to become a life-long learner. Continuing your education can give you a leg up in your career – regardless of your specialty, but you might not find enough time to attend in-person classes. So if you aspire to become a successful nurse, enrolling in an RN-BSN program online will help you manage and study smart. 2. Sleep is essential Although medical school has erratic schedules, you should try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Sleeping is just as essential as studying – you can't function properly if you don't get enough of it. The average adult requires between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night to function optimally. Although this is easier said than done, there are a variety of apps available and some sleeping methods that can assist you in catching up on much-needed rest. Related Resource: Top 7 Reasons the Medical Field Will Always Be In Demand 3. Eat a well-balanced diet The food you eat affects your nutrient intake, energy level, and even your overall mood for the day. So even if you have a busy schedule that makes fast food seem like a good option, eating extremely unhealthy can adversely affect your ability to function. Even though healthy food can be more difficult for those with a hectic work schedule, meal prep guides aim to reduce the time to eat healthily massively. So get on with your research and create healthy and balanced weekly meal plans! 4. Spend some time exercising You are probably under the impression that your schedule will not allow you to exercise; however, improving your organizational skills may provide enough time. For example, you could spend 30 minutes on a relaxing yoga or morning jog. In addition, you are probably aware of the extraordinary benefits of a few minutes of exercise, as you are likely reassuring your patients or fellows to schedule time in their schedules for physical activity. 5. Hydrate Medical students, residents, and interns spend a lot of time lecturing their patients about staying hydrated. For them, it is easy to go for hours to the institute during a long and busy day without feeling like you have time to get a drink. However, this is one of the simplest ways to stay healthy. So please bring a water bottle with you and swig from it between patients and lectures. Know where all of the water fountains are–and use them! Also, make sure you drink during all of your breaks and work hours. If you want to keep track of how much you're drinking, there are plenty of bottles with ounce markings to ensure you're getting enough. Drink up! 6. Manage your stress Because working and studying conditions are undeniably demanding, medical students are well-known for leading haphazardly busy lives. As a result, you should have a few stress management in place to help you deal with the mental demands of your job. Meditation, breathing techniques, and even religious prayers can all relieve stress. Whatever methods you find realistic and appealing, have stress management tactics as a go-to when feeling anxious. However, you may be disheartened by your insanely chaotic work schedule when putting your newly learned stress management technologies and methodologies into practice. Even if you believe that your busy days will leave you with no time to work on stress reduction, you will be able to find a few minutes by examining your schedule. Even five minutes of relaxation can significantly affect anxiety and stress. 7. Find a schedule-friendly hobby Even if you believe that your professional career leaves no room for a hobby or curiosity, the satisfying benefits of a hobby may amaze you. Moreover, you don't have to devote too much time to your chosen hobby because some are less time-consuming than others. Consider reuniting with your inner artist, or perhaps growing vegetables would benefit you. Finding a suitable hobby is not difficult either; consider simply reading through lists of popular hobbies. On the other hand, you most likely already have an interest or hobby in mind that you've been putting off to concentrate on your career. So dig that hobby up and make time for YOU! Conclusion These were some of the best and easy-to-follow health tips that med students can easily incorporate into their schedules. Of course, we understand that staying healthy and active during medical school is not a piece of cake, and it is tempting to take the easy way out. But in the long run, this strategy does not pay off. Thus, it is better to practice healthy habits (from day one) so that you'll never fumble. So pay heed to the above-said health tips and become the person you wish to be (a successful and affirmative healthcare professional). Read Also: Health Tips For Hard Working Men 3 Top Tips to Keep Your Eyes Healthy Health Tips For Hard Working Men

Tricking Handheld BMI Machine Scores

One survey has returned the results that around half of Americans are trying to lose weight. This isn’t to say that half of the US population is heavily overweight, but it does point to many people taking a keen interest in their weight and body fat levels. There are many options for measuring BMI and body fat today, with calipers, handheld machines, and smart scales available. Some of these devices can help you to understand your BMI, and others go far deeper and measure a number of health metrics. However, are these devices accurate, or could you accidentally, or intentionally, trick them into giving false readings? What is BMI and what is the difference with body fat percentage? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, if someone had a BMI reading of 18.5 to 24.9 then they would be considered healthy. Of course, this doesn’t measure other metrics and doesn’t take into account any other health problems. BMI stands for Body Mass Index, and this is calculated by measuring a person’s height and weight, to give a rough idea of how much fat is being carried as a percentage. Body Fat Percentage, or BFP, refers to the total mass of fat, which is then divided by the total body mass. This is a more complex calculation than BMI. Can you trick a BMI machine? To understand how someone might fool a BMI machine, it is partly necessary to understand how they work. A BMI machine works by sending an electrical signal through the body. BMI is worked out by measuring the time it takes to get from one side to the other. This signal may travel from hand to leg, hand to hand, or leg to leg. As the signal travels through the body it will go through water, fat, muscle, and bone. It cuts through the water faster than muscle and bone. The signal travels at its slowest when moving through fat. This is how you can trick a BMI machine. Drink water to fool a BMI machine The electrical signal moves most slowly when hitting fat. If that fat area is represented as a percentage, then the less you have as part of your body, the lower your BMI will be. Drinking more water will fool the machine into believing you have a lower BMI score. Conversely, if you dehydrate yourself, it will see the fat reserves as a higher percentage. Just as you would stay away from certain foods to be healthy, you should stay away from too much water if you want a proper BMI result. Medical conditions, menstruation, and even skin temperature can also affect results. Can BMI machines help you to lose weight? Handheld machines are perhaps not the best way to get your BMI results. Machines that bring back the best results run from leg to leg, so a smart scale would be a better option. A BMI smart scale can offer a more accurate way to measure your fat percentage and help you to set fitness targets. The smart scale from FitTrack for instance, lets you measure 17 different health metrics including BFP, BMI, bone content, and basic metabolism. They are said to be as accurate as a DEXA scan. Understanding metabolism and fitness levels are also important when looking to lose weight and body fat. Exercise and diet are key to achieving these goals. Best ways to improve BMI Getting an accurate BMI test is important to see where you are before you set off towards your goals. Do not dehydrate yourself, and do not drink an excessive amount of fluids before you use your BMI scales. This way you will get accurate, and consistent scores each time. Smart scales can also measure metabolism and exercise, and the right foods can help improve this area. This is one reason why fitness is important for weight loss. Metabolism helps to burn calories and fat. Therefore, improving your general fitness will lead to weight loss. When it comes to exercise try to concentrate on activities that burn fat and do not build muscle. Jogging will help more than high octane sprinting. Half an hour of cardio every day will help you to start reducing your BMI. Proper diet is also important. According to Healthline, there are plenty of foods that can help you to burn fat. These include fatty fish with plenty of Omega 3, and green tea, which can help remove belly fat. Summary BMI machines can indeed be tricked, but it is unlikely anyone would want to do this intentionally if they were serious about fat reduction. However, by drinking too much, or too little fluids, you could do it by accident. If you do decide to improve your BMI scores and reduce body fat, then using smart scales, combined with a healthy diet, and a fitness routine is a good way to achieve your mission. Read Also: 10 Best Protein Shake Recipes for Weight Loss Best Weight Loss Program to Lose 20 Pounds Chili Peppers Boost The Weight Loss

Folic Acid Deficiency Symptoms: Supplement the Deficiency Before It’s Too Late

Folic acid vs. folate

Deficiency potential

Uses of vitamin B9 in the body

Folic acid deficiency symptoms

Causes of folic acid deficiency

Diagnosis

The Perfect Way for Girls to Unwind and Relax With Their Friends

You Can’t Out-diet Your Training

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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Tricking Handheld BMI Machine Scores

Folic Acid Deficiency Symptoms: Supplement the Deficiency Before It’s Too Late

Folic acid vs. folate

Deficiency potential

Uses of vitamin B9 in the body

Folic acid deficiency symptoms

Causes of folic acid deficiency

Diagnosis

Share this Article

The Perfect Way for Girls to Unwind and Relax With Their Friends

You Can’t Out-diet Your Training

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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Follow Us

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