Folate deficiency anemia is a blood problem that occurs when there is not enough of this vitamin in the body. Folate (or folic acid) is one of the B vitamins. It helps your body make new cells, including red blood cells. Your body needs red blood cells to carry oxygen. If you don't have enough red blood cells, you have anemia. This can cause symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, and lightheadedness.
Possible causes of folate deficiency anemia include:
- Not getting enough folate or folic acid in the diet.
- An increased need for folate. This can happen during pregnancy or with certain diseases, such as sickle cell disease.
- Drinking too much alcohol.
- Not being able to absorb enough folate. This might happen if you have a medical condition like celiac disease or have had certain types of weight-loss surgery.
- Certain medicines.
Folate deficiency anemia is treated by taking folate or folic acid supplements.