Persistent fatigue, brain fog and headaches are often associated with stress or lack of sleep, but a deficiency of folate, also known as vitamin B9, may also contribute to such symptoms, according to a recent report published by The News.
Folate is an essential nutrient required for cell growth, tissue repair and DNA synthesis. The body needs adequate amounts of the vitamin to support normal blood-cell production and other important biological processes.
A significant deficiency can contribute to megaloblastic anaemia, a blood disorder associated with impaired DNA synthesis. People affected by this condition may experience fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath and other symptoms. The report also highlights headaches and cognitive difficulties such as brain fog as possible concerns associated with inadequate folate.
The synthetic form of vitamin B9 is called folic acid and is commonly found in fortified foods and supplements. Many people can obtain adequate folate through their regular diet, but some groups may have greater difficulty maintaining sufficient levels.
According to the report, older adults and people with alcohol-use disorders may be among those who require particular attention to their nutritional intake.
Health authorities recommend that adults generally consume around 400 micrograms of folate per day. At the same time, excessive amounts of synthetic folic acid can cause problems, including nausea, abdominal cramps and diarrhoea, and adults are advised not to exceed 1,000 micrograms per day from synthetic folic acid unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.
Folate is particularly important during pregnancy. Adequate folic acid intake before pregnancy and during the first trimester can substantially reduce the risk of neural tube defects in developing babies.
Experts therefore recommend maintaining a balanced diet and seeking medical advice when persistent fatigue or other unexplained symptoms continue rather than automatically assuming they are caused by stress or poor sleep
