Women who spend a lot of time in the sun are at risk of losing folate, according to a study at the Queensland University of Technology.
The researchers found a 20% reduction in folate levels in their study of Australian women aged 18-47 who reported high rates of sun exposure.
These represent levels below those recommended for women considering pregnancy.
Women who spend time outside from 10am to 3pm with inadequate sun protection, were found to be the most at risk, according to the study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology.
The benefits of folic acid are well known to women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. Vital for fetal development, folate significantly reduces the risk of miscarriage and neural tube defects like spina bifida. Amongst other benefits, folate is also linked to cell growth and healthy brain function.
This latest research suggests another reason to be wary of staying out for too long in the blistering summer sun.
For more information and ideas on folate food sources, click here.
The Bold and the Beautiful spoilers document that Will Spencer (Crew Morrow) was upset. That's…
The Young and The Restless and Beyond The Gates spoilers tease a big crossover event…
No discussion of disturbing crimes in American history is complete without the Wineville Chicken Coop…
General Hospital spoilers indicate that Scout Cain will be looking a little different when she’s…
Days Of Our Lives Spoilers reveal that the truth about Kristen Dimera’s (Stacy Haiduk) involvement…
The Young and the Restless spoilers document that Matt Clark (Roger Howarth) has confirmed to…