Vitamin B9

• Thiamine – B1
• Riboflavin – B2
• Niacin – B3
• Pantothenic acid – B5
• Pyridoxine – B6
• Biotin – B7
• Folate – B9
• Cobalamin – B12

Since most B-vitamins are combined in the same food sources (grains, meat and fish), they easily interact and support each other’s function. These vitamins mainly function as co-enzymes in a variety of metabolic and biochemical reactions. B vitamins are essential for:
• Maintaining the energy metabolism
• Cardiac function
• Proper growth and development
• Maintenance of cells and organs

Folate – B9

Folate is also known as folic acid or vitamin B9. Folate functions as a co-enzyme in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, and the amino acid metabolism. Folate is required for proper cell division and therefore key during growth and development. Especially during pregnancy, folate is strongly recommended since it helps to prevent neurological disorders of the new-born. One of the most important folate dependent reactions is the conversion of homocysteine to methionine.

EFSA has acknowledged the following beneficial effects as a basis for health claims:
• Folate – B9 contributes to normal psychological functions
• Folate – B9 contributes to normal amino acid synthesis
• Folate – B9 can contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
• Folate – B9 contributes to normal psychological functions
• Folate – B9 contributes to normal cell division
• Folate – B9 contributes to normal function of the immune system
• Folate – B9 contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism
• Folate – B9 contributes to normal blood formation
• Folate – B9 contributes maternal tissue growth during pregnancy