Treat Anxiety
Folate is important for the development of the nervous system and helps the body make new cells, including RBCs. A folate deficiency can cause anemia, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. A folate deficiency can also cause neurological problems such as depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Studies have shown that taking a folate supplement can improve symptoms of anxiety. It works by helping the body to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation.
Reduce cholesterol levels
Folate plays an important role in the metabolism of homocysteine – an amino acid that can damage blood vessels and increase cholesterol in blood – contributing to the development of heart disease. (4)
Folate has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels. In a study of over 1000 adults, those who took a daily supplement of folate had lower levels of LDL cholesterol than those who did not take the supplement. The difference was even more pronounced in people with high LDL cholesterol levels at the start of the study. It may help reduce cholesterol levels by reducing the production of homocysteine.