FOLATE

Most problems arise in this deficiency if a woman conceives either on the pill or immediately after coming off it, when the body is still recovering its folate stores. Folate is required by the body to facilitate cell division (a process that begins immediately after conception) and deficiencies result in greater risk of abnormal synthesis of DNA and congenital abnormalities. Deficiency can also lead to damage to the wall of the small intestine, anaemia and elevated homocysteine levels, which have been associated with heart disease, various gynecological conditions and repeated miscarriage. Folate-rich whole foods include dark leafy greens, asparagus, broccoli, citrus fruits, beans, peas, lentils and avocado.