Folic acid is the synthetic form of which vitamin?

The story behind the answer

Folic acid is the synthetic, more stable form of vitamin B9, a member of the B-vitamin family. It’s used in supplements and fortified foods because it’s well absorbed. In the body, folate (B9) is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation, and it’s especially critical early in pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects; deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia.

Memory aids: “B9 for baby”—pregnancy lasts about nine months, and adequate B9 supports fetal development. Also, “folate from foliage”: natural folate is abundant in leafy greens, while folic acid is the manufactured version added to grains. Don’t confuse it with vitamin C (ascorbic acid), vitamin A, or vitamin D.