Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a water-soluble B vitamin. Folate is naturally found in a variety of foods, including dark leafy greens, legumes, fruits, and fortified cereals.

Folic acid is used to prevent and treat low blood levels of folate, also known as folate deficiency. Folate is needed for several important bodily functions, including cell growth and DNA synthesis.

Folic acid is especially important during pregnancy, as it can help prevent certain birth defects, such as spina bifida, a condition in which the backbone does not close properly. For this reason, all women of childbearing age are recommended to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, beginning at least one month before conception and continuing through the first trimester.