What is folate?

Folate in your reports

A folate (folic acid) blood test measures the level in your blood.

MedlinePlus gives a normal range of 2.7 to 17.0 ng/mL (6.12 to 38.52 nmol/L), and ranges may vary slightly between labs. Ask your doctor what your result means for you.

Why folate matters

Your body uses folate to make healthy red blood cells and DNA, and to help tissues grow.

Low folate can lead to:

• a type of anaemia
• mouth ulcers
• a sore, swollen tongue

Getting enough before and during pregnancy helps prevent serious birth defects of the baby's spine and brain, called neural tube defects.

That is why doctors often prescribe folic acid when you're planning a baby. Your body doesn't store folate, so you need it regularly.

Folate in Indian food

A katori of dal or rajma and a serving of greens most days goes a long way.

Eat these often:

• dark green leafy vegetables, such as palak, sarson and methi
• dals, rajma, chana and whole moong
• citrus fruits

Fortified flours and cereals also contribute. If you're planning a pregnancy, ask your doctor about folic acid rather than deciding on supplements yourself.