Question

4 — vitamins b₉ and b₁₂
learning objective: indicate the type, source, and role of b₉ and b₁₂.
which of the following is a role of folic acid?

a.) it helps prevent neural tube defects.

b.) it helps prevent pregnancy.

c.) it helps with the normal function of the nervous system.

d.) it helps the spleen eliminate damaged or dying red blood cells.

Explanation:

• Option a: Folic acid (vitamin B₉) is known to help prevent neural tube defects in developing fetuses, especially when taken during pregnancy.
• Option b: Folic acid does not prevent pregnancy; contraceptives or other methods are used for that.
• Option c: Vitamin B₁₂, not folic acid, is more associated with normal nervous system function.
• Option d: The spleen's role in eliminating red blood cells is not a function of folic acid; folic acid is involved in DNA synthesis and cell division (e.g., for red blood cell production).

Answer:

a.) It helps prevent neural tube defects.