Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin that occurs naturally in food. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate that is found in supplements and added to foods.

The latest research has shown that the risk of developing colon cancer is linked to a diet low in folate. Study authors report that this is the first study to directly connect the two. The research was done on mice. Investigators report none of the mice fed a control diet developed cancer, but one in four mice on the folate-deficient diet developed tumors. The study reveals this may happen because a low level of folate may cause an increase in DNA damage. Study authors caution that while these results are encouraging, more research is needed on humans to know for sure the protective effect of folate for colorectal cancer.

Researchers point out they don't think its necessary to eat excessive amounts of folate, but they do recommend using diet supplements to meet the daily recommended amount. You can find folate in leafy green vegetables, like spinach and turnip greens, fruits such as citrus fruits and juices. Dried beans and peas are all natural sources of folate.