Folic Acid May Fight Asthma and Allergies

Folic acid might fend off allergy and asthma symptoms, a new study suggests.

Researchers reviewed the medical records of 8,083 people ages 2 to 85, zeroing in on the link between participants' blood levels of folate (the naturally occurring form of folic acid, also known as vitamin B9) and levels of IgE antibodies (which are known to elevate in response to allergens). Results revealed that study members with higher folate levels had fewer IgE antibodies—as well as fewer reported allergies, less wheezing, and lower likelihood of asthma. It's possible that folic acid may help decrease allergy and asthma symptoms by regulating inflammation, according to the study's authors.

Found in green leafy vegetables (such as spinach), Great Northern beans, fortified cereals, green peas, wheat germ, and avocado, folic acid has also been detected at low levels in people with depression. Adults need 400 micrograms daily, but pregnant women are advised to increase their intake to 600 mcg.