Folic acid, one of the B vitamins, is important for health and well-being, especially for women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. In the past, not having enough folic acid often led to folic acid or folate deficiency anemia, one of many diet-related types of anemia. Today, however, it is highly unlikely that anyone could become anemic from this deficiency.

Your healthcare provider will figure out the best treatment based on:
Your age, overall health, and medical history
How sick you are
How well you can handle certain medicines, treatments, or therapies
How long the condition is expected to last
Your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:
Vitamin and mineral supplements
Changes in your diet
Medicine
Treating the underlying disease

You may need to take folic acid supplements for at least 2 to 3 months. These may be pills or shots (injections). Eating foods high in folic acid and cutting your alcohol intake are also important. If a digestive tract problem causes your anemia, your provider may treat that first.