Vitamin B9, also known as folate, is a vital vitamin for your body’s cells. It helps your body make DNA, which contains the genetic instructions that your cells need to function properly. Folate is especially important during pregnancy and infancy when cells are growing and developing rapidly.
In addition to its role in DNA synthesis, folate also helps your body produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen in your blood and can reduce the risk of certain birth defects. You can find folate in a variety of foods, including leafy greens, citrus fruits, and beans. Deficiency in vitamin B9 can lead to symptoms like fatigue, anemia, and birth defects in infants. However, most people in developed countries get enough vitamin B9 through their diet or supplements.