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  • Title: Folic acid intake and its effects on the prevention of neural tube defects, the masking of vitamin B12 deficiency and the reduction of homocysteine.
    Author: Leyva M.
    Journal: J Okla State Med Assoc; 2002 May; 95(5):339-42. PubMed ID: 12043109.
    Abstract:
    The FDA's decision to require the fortification of the United State's grain supply with folic acid was made complex by proponents' arguments for its protective properties against neural tube defects (NTD) vs. opponents' concern regarding safety-risks in masking vitamin B12 deficiency in the elderly. Since this regulation mandated an effective date of January 1, 1998, research has been conducted to identify the impact that the fortification of 140 micrograms/100 g of grain in the U.S. grain supply has had on public health. Studies attempted to more accurately describe the minimum effective dose for prevention of NTD and to identify the levels at which it presents a health risk. Several studies have been reviewed and recommendations have been provided for altering the level of folic acid fortification.
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