Self-check Questions

Section 1 - “Facts About Folic Acid”

You’ve just completed the “Facts About Folic Acid” section of this module. Before continuing, test your knowledge about the definition, benefits and sources of folic acid by answering the Self-Check questions below.  (These questions are for your benefit only—they will not be graded.  Correct answers are given just after the questions.)

1) Which of the following is part of the definition of folic acid?

A. Folic acid is a water soluble B vitamin
B. Folic acid plays a key part in DNA synthesis and metabolic processes in the body
C. Folic acid is found in high concentrations in dairy products
D. All of the above
E. A and B only

2) In the body, folic acid is especially important in any organ system or developmental stage where rapid cell growth is occurring (for example, pregnancy).

A. True
B. False

3) Which of the following is true about the benefits of consuming the appropriate amount of folic acid?

A. Prevention of neural tube defects and other birth defects such as oral clefts and some congenital heart defects are known benefits
B. Reduction in risk for skin cancer is a known benefit
C. Reduction in risk for cardiovascular disease and colorectal cancer are potential benefits
D. A, B and C
E. A and C only

4) Which of the following is true about the differences between folic acid and folate?

A. Folic acid is not as chemically complex as folate.
B. Folate is found only in food, especially in fresh, dark green, leafy vegetables.
C. The folic acid found in multivitamins, supplements or enriched foods has a higher bioavailability than folate.
D. All of the above
E. A and C only

5) The March of Dimes recommends which of the following sources for obtaining adequate amounts of folic acid?

A. Multivitamins or supplements only
B. Foods high in folate only
C. A diet of foods enriched with folic acid only
D. Any of the above

Correct Answers:

1)       The correct answer is E.  High concentrations of folic acid are not typically found in dairy products

2)       True.  Folic acid is especially important in the body for any organ system or developmental stage where rapid cell growth is occurring (for example, pregnancy).

3)       The correct answer is E.  There is no known relationship between folic acid and the reduction of skin cancer

4)       The correct answer is D.  Folate is found in food, especially in fresh, dark green, leafy vegetables.

5)       The correct answer is C.  The March of Dimes recommends combining foods high in folate, multivitamins, supplements and enriched food in order to obtain adequate folic acid.