Folic acid appears to reduce the risk of stroke. The reviews indicate the risk of stroke appears to be reduced only in some individuals, but a definite recommendation regarding supplementation beyond the current RDA has not been established for stroke prevention. Folic supplements are inexpensive and relatively safe to use, which is why stroke or hyperhomocysteinemia patients are encouraged to consume daily B vitamins including folic acid.
In addition, folic acid may not be helpful, and could even be damaging, in people already suffering from cancer or from a precancerous condition. Likewise, it has been suggested excess folate may promote tumor initiation. Diets high in folate are associated with decreased risk of colorectal cancer; some studies show the association is stronger for folate from foods alone than for folate from foods and supplements. The researchers noted that while elevated concentrations of vitamin B12 may be associated with an increased risk for advanced stage prostate cancer.
A 2008 study has shown no significant effect of folic acid as food additives on overall risk of total invasive cancer or breast cancer among women. Recently, a clinical trial showed daily supplementation of 1 mg of folic acid increased the risk of prostate cancer, while dietary and plasma folate levels among vitamin nonusers actually decreased the risk of prostate cancer. Folinic acid, under the drug name leucovorin,a form of folate (formyl-THF), can help "rescue" or reverse the toxic effects of methotrexate.
For this reason, a physician may wish to check the vitamin B12 status of patients 50 years of age or older before prescribing them a supplement that contains folic acid. Patients with celiac disease have a higher chance of developing folate deficiency. An erythrocyte folate level of 140 μg/L or lower indicates inadequate folate status.
Other food additives: Sodium Alginate Guar Gum
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