Difference Between Folic Acid And Vitamin B Complex
Introduction
Many people often confuse folic acid with vitamin B complex. However, they are not the same thing, though they share some similarities. Both of them are essential for the body's growth and development, but they function differently. In this article, we'll highlight the difference between folic acid and vitamin B complex.
What Is Folic Acid?
Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a B vitamin that is naturally present in many foods, such as leafy vegetables, beans, and citrus fruits. It plays a crucial role in the body's DNA synthesis, repair, and cell division. Folic acid is also essential for pregnant women because it helps prevent birth defects in the baby's brain and spine.
What Is Vitamin B Complex?
Vitamin B complex is a group of eight essential B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folate (B9), and cobalamin (B12). These vitamins play a crucial role in the body's metabolism, energy production, and nervous system function. They are also responsible for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and eyes.
Differences Between Folic Acid And Vitamin B Complex
Chemical Composition
Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, while vitamin B complex is a group of eight essential B vitamins.
Function
Folic acid is responsible for DNA synthesis, repair, and cell division. It is also essential for pregnant women to prevent birth defects in the baby's brain and spine. Vitamin B complex, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in the body's metabolism, energy production, and nervous system function. It is also responsible for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and eyes.
Food Sources
Folic acid is naturally present in many foods, such as leafy vegetables, beans, and citrus fruits. It is also added to some fortified foods, such as bread, cereal, and pasta. Vitamin B complex is also present in many foods, including meat, fish, dairy products, and leafy vegetables.
Deficiency Symptoms
A deficiency in folic acid can lead to anemia, birth defects, and cardiovascular diseases. A deficiency in vitamin B complex can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, skin rashes, and digestive issues.
Recommended Daily Intake
The recommended daily intake of folic acid for adults is 400-800 mcg, while the recommended daily intake of vitamin B complex varies depending on the specific B vitamin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, folic acid and vitamin B complex are essential for the body's growth and development. While they share some similarities, they are different in terms of chemical composition, function, food sources, deficiency symptoms, and recommended daily intake. It is essential to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods rich in folic acid and vitamin B complex to maintain good health.