New research has found evidence that folic acid may suppress allergic reactions and lessen the severity of allergy and asthma symptoms.
Scientists from the Johns Hopkins Childrens Center reviewed the medical records of more than 8,000 people aged two to 85 and tracked the effects of folate levels on respiratory and allergic symptoms as well as on levels of IgE antibodies which rise in response to an allergen.
People with higher blood levels of folate had fewer IgE antibodies, fewer reported allergies, less wheezing and lower likelihood of asthma, the researchers found.
“Our findings are a clear indication that folic acid may indeed help regulate immune response to allergens, and may reduce allergy and asthma symptoms,” says lead investigator Dr. Elizabeth Matsui, a pediatric allergist at Hopkins Childrens.
The research results furthermore add to mounting evidence that folate can help regulate inflammation.
Folic acid, sometimes called vitamin B9, is also essential for red blood cell health and has long been known to reduce the risk of spinal birth defects.
Those who are unable to achieve proper folic acid intake from their diet may consider nutritional supplements as an option. 