Safety of folic acid

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2018 Feb;1414(1):59-71. doi: 10.1111/nyas.13499. Epub 2017 Nov 20.

Abstract

There is a large body of literature demonstrating the efficacy of maternal folic acid intake in preventing birth defects, as well as investigations into potential adverse consequences of consuming folic acid above the upper intake level (UL). Recently, two authoritative bodies convened expert panels to assess risks from high intakes of folic acid: the U.S. National Toxicology Program and the UK Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition. Overall, the totality of the evidence examined by these panels, as well as studies published since the release of their reports, have not established risks for adverse consequences resulting from existing mandatory folic acid fortification programs that have been implemented in many countries. Current folic acid fortification programs have been shown to support public health in populations, and the exposure levels are informed by and adherent to the precautionary principle. Additional research is needed to assess the health effects of folic acid supplement use when the current upper limit for folic acid is exceeded.

Keywords: cancer; folate; folic acid; neural tube defects; safety.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cognitive Dysfunction / etiology
  • Diabetes Mellitus / etiology
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Female
  • Folic Acid / administration & dosage*
  • Folic Acid / adverse effects*
  • Food, Fortified
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / etiology
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Maximum Tolerated Dose
  • Neoplasms / etiology
  • Neural Tube Defects / prevention & control*
  • No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level
  • Pregnancy
  • Risk Factors
  • Safety
  • Thyroid Diseases / etiology
  • United States
  • United States Food and Drug Administration

Substances

  • Folic Acid