Folic Acid Fortification: History, Effect, Concerns, and Future Directions

Periconceptional intake of folic acid is known to reduce a woman’s risk of having an infant affected by a neural tube birth defect (NTD). National programs to mandate fortification of food with folic acid have reduced the prevalence of NTDs worldwide. Uncertainty surrounding possible unintended consequences has led to concerns about higher folic acid intake and food fortification programs. This uncertainty emphasizes the need to continually monitor fortification programs for accurate measures of their effect and the ability to address concerns as they arise. This review highlights the history, effect, concerns, and future directions of folic acid food fortification programs.

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Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamine) - When, How, and Why to Supplement

By Ken Adams, M.D. and Scott E. Conard, M.D.

Sources and Physiologic Functions

Sources

Liver, kidney, muscle meats, eggs, cheese, milk, and fish are excellent sources of vitamin B12. It is not found in plant foods or in yeast. Fermented foods such as soy sauce, tempeh, and miso, and fortified foods such as soymilk are also good sources of this vitamin.

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Thiamine (Vitamin B1) How, Why and When to Supplement

By Ken Adams, M.D.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) Sources and Physiologic Functions

Sources

Pork, whole grains, and legumes are the richest sources of thiamine. Outer layers of seeds are particularly rich in this vitamin.

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Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) When, How, and Why to Supplement

By Ken Adams, M.D.

Pyridoxine (B6) Sources and Physiologic Functions Sources

Poultry, fish, liver, and eggs are good sources of this vitamin; meat and milk contain lesser amounts. Pyridoxine in animal sources is 96% bioavailable. Vitamin B6 can be made by intestinal bacteria in healthy persons. Plant foods such as legumes, peanuts, potatoes, yeast, bananas, corn, cabbage, yams, prunes, watermelon, and avocados also contain this vitamin.

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Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Sources: Liver is an excellent source of riboflavin. Milk, cheese, egg whites, legumes, peanuts, fish, meats, broccoli, spinach, and fortified grains are good sources. The UV component of sunlight destroys Riboflavin. Hence, milk should be protected in opaque cartons from bright light during storage. Proteins, dextrins, and starch decrease the need for this vitamin.

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