Health Information : Anemia of Folate Deficiency

• Home -
• Health Information
• Anemia of Folate Deficiency

What is folate-deficiency anemia?

Folate deficiency is the lack of folic acid in the blood, which can cause a type of anemia known as megaloblastic (pernicious) anemia. Folic acid is a B vitamin required for the production of normal red blood cells.

What causes folate-deficiency anemia?

• Insufficient intake of foods that contain folic acid like green leafy vegetables, fruits, fortified cereals and meats
• Excessive consumption of alcohol
• Intake of certain medications (like medicines for seizure)
• Pregnancy
• Certain diseases of the lower digestive tract (celiac disease)

What are the symptoms offolate-deficiency anemia?

Symptoms may include:

• Loss of appetite
• Pale skin
• Irritable
• Diarrhea
• Tiredness
• Smooth & tender tongue

Treatment for folate-deficiency anemia:

• Vitamin and mineral supplements
• Dietary changes
• Medicines
• Treating the underlying cause

You may be required to take folic acid supplements along with foods high in folic acid. Reduce alcohol consumption and treat your digestive tract problems.