👉 Folate is a compound that is essential for the development and function of red blood cells. It is produced by the body during pregnancy and during periods of menstruation, but it is not synthesized in sufficient quantities to meet the daily needs of the body. The primary role of folate is to help prevent neural tube defects in fetuses, which can lead to birth defects such as spina bifida or Down syndrome. In addition, folate has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on