Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with
the NHS website.
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Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything
from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit.
You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website,
or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.
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About Folic AcidNHS medicines information on folic acid - what it's used for and key facts.Folic acid is the synthetic version of the vitamin folate, also known as vitamin B9. Folate helps the body make healthy red blood cells and is found in certain foods. Folic acid is used to: Folic acid is available on prescription. It comes as tablets or as a liquid you swallow. You can also buy lower dose tablets from pharmacies and supermarkets. Folic acid can also be combined with: - ferrous fumarate and ferrous sulphate, to treat iron deficiency anaemia
- other vitamins and minerals, as a multivitamin and mineral supplement
Key facts- You'll usually take folic acid once a day, but sometimes you'll only need to take it once a week. Your doctor will explain how often to take it.
- Most adults and children can take folic acid.
- If you're pregnant or trying to get pregnant, it's recommended you take folic acid until you're 12 weeks pregnant. It helps your baby grow normally.
- You're unlikely to get side effects with folic acid, but some people feel sick, lose their appetite, get wind or feel bloated. These side effects are usually mild and do not last long.
- It's best not to drink alcohol while taking folic acid, as it can stop your folic acid from working as well.
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OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic. | ![](/images/spacer.gif) |
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Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.
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