UV exposure found to lower folate levels in young women

UV exposure found to lower folate levels in young women
New research shows high levels of sun exposure lowers folate levels in young women.

(Medical Xpress)—Women who are pregnant or trying to fall pregnant and taking a folic acid supplement may be at risk of reducing their folate benefit through sun exposure, a new QUT study has warned.

In a paper titled Exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation is associated with decreased folate status in women of childbearing age, published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B:Biology, QUT researchers found UV exposure significantly depleted folate levels.

Professor Michael Kimlin and Dr David Borradale, from QUT's AusSun Research Lab, said the study of 45 young healthy women in Brisbane aged 18 to 47, showed high rates of sun exposure accounted up to a 20 per cent reduction in folate levels.

"This is concerning as the benefits of are well-known, with health professionals urging young women to take a prior to and during pregnancy," Professor Kimlin said.

"Folate has been found to reduce miscarriage and neural tube defects such as spina bifida in unborn babies. The NHMRC recommends or those planning a pregnancy take 500 micrograms a day."

Professor Kimlin said the study, which was the first to investigate the effects of sun exposure on folate levels in women of childbearing age, found women who had high levels of sun exposure had folate levels below those recommended for women considering pregnancy.

"The women at risk were those who were outside during the most UV intense time of the day, between 10am and 3pm, with little sun protection," Professor Kimlin said.

"These were the women who had the highest levels of and the lowest levels of folate, whilst not deficient in folate, they were on the lower side of normal."

Dr Borradale said in showing the link between UV exposure and folate depletion, further research including a controlled clinical trial was needed.

"We are not telling women to stop taking folate supplements, but rather urging women to talk to their doctor about their folate levels and the importance of folate in their diet, especially those who are planning a pregnancy," Dr Borradale said.

"The results of this study reinforce the need for adequate prior to and during pregnancy."

What is folate and how can I get it?

Folic acid is a B vitamin that is very important for pregnant and those planning a baby. Folate is found in foods such as green leafy vegetables like spinach, citrus fruits, legumes, whole grains and vegemite. Folic acid is also added to many foods such as breads, flours and pastas. Folic acid can also be taken as a pill.

More information: "Exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation is associated with a decreased folate status in women of childbearing age." Borradale D, Isenring E, Hacker E, Kimlin MG. J Photochem Photobiol B. 2014 Feb 5;131:90-5. DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2014.01.002. Epub 2014 Jan 17.

Journal information: Photochemistry and Photobiology
Citation: UV exposure found to lower folate levels in young women (2014, March 19) retrieved 28 March 2024 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2014-03-uv-exposure-folate-young-women.html
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