What are the treatment options for folate deficiency?

Folate helps the body make healthy red blood cells and supports cell growth. Low folate can contribute to anaemia, tiredness, breathlessness, a sore tongue, mouth ulcers, or changes in concentration. A [Blood Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/blood-test/) can check blood-cell patterns and nutrient levels, while a clinician considers diet, alcohol intake, absorption problems, pregnancy, and medicines that may affect folate.

A clinician may prescribe folic acid and choose the dose and duration according to your results and circumstances. Take it as directed rather than borrowing someone else’s tablets. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause similar blood changes, so B12 status should be considered before folic acid is used alone. Folate-rich foods include leafy green vegetables, beans, peas, citrus fruit, and fortified foods. [Nutrition Counselling](/treatments/lifestyle-and-wellness/nutrition-counselling/) can help if nausea, restricted eating, digestive symptoms, or pregnancy makes food planning difficult. The underlying cause also needs attention so low folate does not return.

Arrange an appointment if you have persistent tiredness, breathlessness, palpitations, a sore mouth, or symptoms during pregnancy. Seek urgent care for severe breathlessness, fainting, chest pain, marked weakness, or new confusion. Contact your clinician if symptoms continue after treatment, because the diagnosis, absorption, or another deficiency may need review.

Ask what the blood results show, whether B12 and iron also need checking, how long to take folic acid, and whether any medicine or digestive condition may be contributing. Ask which foods or fortified products fit your usual meals.