Food folate and reduced folic acid are part of the water-soluble vitamin B complex and functions as a co-enzyme, together with vitamins B12 and C, in the breakdown and utilisation of proteins. It is active in cell division and performs its basic role as a carbon carrier in the formation of haem, the iron-containing protein found in haemoglobin, necessary for the formation of red blood cells. It is also needed for the formation of nucleic acid, which is essential for the processes of growth and reproduction of all body cells.
