Among the foods containing the B vitamin folate are a large variety
of vegetables, beans and fruits. “Folic acid” is the synthetic version
of folate.
In an article titled “Beans for the Brain,” the March 2007 issue of
the AARP Bulletin cites the results of two studies that
emphasize the importance of foods rich in folic acid as possible
protection against Alzheimer’s disease.
In a study reported in the Archives of Neurology,
“participants with the highest intake of folic acid had the lowest risk
of developing Alzheimer’s.” The other study, reported in the
Lancet, showed that memory and information-processing speed were
improved in those participants taking folic acid as compared with those
who were taking placebos.
However, the best and safest way to obtain “folic acid” is not by
supplements but by eating vegetables, fruits, and beans which naturally
contain folate. Studies are showing that there is a potential for harm
in taking folic acid in supplement form. According to John McDougall,
M.D., “Folic acid is a synthetic version of the natural vitamin, folate,
found in plant foods. Folate from food is essential for good health.
Folic acid sold in capsules is a medication at best and a toxin at
worst.”
See
http://www.all-creatures.org/health/folicacid.html for an excellent
article by John McDougall, M.D. on the dangers of folic acid
supplementation.
