folic acid

noun

fo·​lic acid ˈfō-lik- 

: a crystalline vitamin C₁₉H₁₉N₇O₆ of the B complex that is required for normal production of red blood cells, is used especially in the treatment of nutritional anemias, and occurs chiefly in green leafy vegetables, liver, kidneys, dried beans, and mushrooms

called also pteroylglutamic acid

Examples of folic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

It is also called folic acid, folacin, or vitamin B9. —Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 16 July 2024

Okra is also a great source of vitamin C, folic acid, and soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 9 July 2024

Studies have shown a link between sun exposure and decreased folic acid, a B vitamin often found in prenatal supplements that helps the body create new cells. —Kate Watson, Peoplemag, 9 July 2024

The Multivitamin for Her is USP Verified, containing 23 key nutrients to provide support to the metabolism, bones, muscles, and immune system—from folic acid to calcium and iron. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 5 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin folium

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

folic acid

noun

fo·​lic acid ˌfō-lik- 

: a crystalline vitamin of the B complex used especially in the treatment of anemia resulting from inadequate intake of nutrients

Medical Definition

folic acid

noun

fo·​lic acid ˌfō-lik- 

: a crystalline vitamin C₁₉H₁₉N₇O₆ of the B complex that is required for normal production of red blood cells, that is used especially in the treatment of nutritional anemias, and that occurs especially in green leafy vegetables, liver, kidneys, dried beans, and mushrooms

called also folacin, folate, Lactobacillus casei factor, pteroylglutamic acid, vitamin B_c, vitamin M