MCQ Detailed View

Folate, also known as Vitamin B-9, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in many biological processes. It is crucial for DNA synthesis, cell division, and the production of red blood cells. Folate is particularly important during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy, infancy, and adolescence, because it supports proper development and tissue formation.

Vitamin B-9 cannot be synthesized efficiently by the human body and must be obtained from dietary sources. Foods rich in folate include leafy green vegetables (like spinach and kale), legumes, nuts, seeds, and fortified cereals. Folate deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, weakness, and, during pregnancy, an increased risk of neural tube defects in the developing fetus.

Folate works closely with other B-complex vitamins, especially Vitamin B-12 (cobalamin), in processes such as red blood cell formation and maintaining proper nervous system function. It also helps in converting homocysteine, an amino acid, into methionine, which is important for cardiovascular health.

It is important to distinguish Folate (Vitamin B-9) from other B vitamins:

• 
  

  Vitamin B-6 is pyridoxine, involved in amino acid metabolism.

  
  


• 
  

  Vitamin B-2 is riboflavin, essential for energy production and metabolism.

  
  


• 
  

  Vitamin B-12 is cobalamin, important for nerve function and red blood cell formation.

  
  

Understanding folate is a vital part of biology and nutrition science, as it highlights the connection between diet, cellular processes, and overall health. Knowledge of B-9 helps students appreciate how vitamins contribute to metabolic functions, growth, and disease prevention.