A member of the B Vitamin family, known for its role in the production of nucleic acid and DNA, it helps in the utilization of sugars, amino acids and in the division of cells and the formation of blood. It is recommended as necessary for those who are going to get pregnant or for those who are already pregnant (instruction of the British Ministry of Health: 400μg daily from the beginning of the pregnancy attempt until the 12th week), because it helps to prevent abnormalities of the fetal spinal cord. It also helps along with B6 in lowering the level of homocysteine in the blood, protecting the heart. Useful in cases of anemia.