Vitamin M, also known as folic acid or folate, is a water-soluble B-vitamin that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within the human body. It is an essential nutrient required for the synthesis and maintenance of DNA, the genetic material present in all cells. Vitamin M is involved in cell division and growth, making it particularly important during periods of rapid cell growth, such as pregnancy and infancy.
One of the primary functions of vitamin M is its role in the production of red blood cells. It aids in the formation of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Consequently, an adequate intake of vitamin M is necessary to prevent the development of anemia, a condition characterized by reduced oxygen-carrying capacity.
In addition to its involvement in cell growth and division, vitamin M is essential for neural tube formation in the early stages of fetal development. Adequate intake of vitamin M during pregnancy is critical to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in infants, such as spina bifida.
Sources of vitamin M include leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, legumes, and fortified grains. In cases where dietary intake alone is insufficient, vitamin M supplements may be recommended.
Overall, vitamin M plays a vital role in maintaining various bodily functions, particularly those related to cell growth, DNA synthesis, and the formation of red blood cells and neural tubes.
