Why do we naturopaths go on about eating Dark leafy greens?? FOLATE

Dark Leafy greens are good source of folate, which plays a key role in DNA synthesis – So what I hear you say?

Adequate folate may reduce risk of:

Alzheimer’s Disease and impaired cognitive function

Stroke

Depression and psychiatric disorders

Colon cancer

Breast cancer

Cervical cancer

Other cancers

Periodontal disease

Idiopathic recurrent miscarriage

It may also assist in reducing:

High blood pressure

Cardiovascular disease factors – reducing homocysteine levels

Diabetes type II  – reduced insulin resistance

 

Additionally if you suffer from any of these signs and symptoms, it’s possible you could be folate deficient:

Macrocytic or megaloblastic anaemia, fatigue, irritability and depression, headache, hair loss, nausea, insomnia, peripheral neuropathy, myelopathy, diarrhoea, weight loss, increased blood levels of homocysteine, cerebral cortex atrophy and cognitive decline.

Folate deficiency is not uncommon and can develop within just 4 months of having an inadequate diet, but it can also stem from compromised absorption, which could be caused by coeliac and Crohn’s or use of long term medications (such as antacids and the oral contraceptive pill).

Dark green leafy veges are best eaten fresh, or lightly cooked, and can be added easily to smoothies, savoury breakfasts, lunch and dinner.