Oral Candidiasis
Low folate levels can manifest oral thrush, otherwise known as oral candidiasis. It is a condition wherein the fungus Candida albicans thrives in the mucous lining of the mouth. Although Candida albicans is a normal organism in the mouth, when it overgrows and upsets the microbiome balance, it can cause severe problems.
Oral thrush causes the formation of creamy, white lesions, usually manifesting on the inner cheeks or the surface of the tongue and, in some cases, even on the roof of the mouth. The lesions can also spread to the gums, tonsils, and the back of the throat. Babies and older adults are more susceptible to oral thrush because they may have reduced immunity.
People who suffer from oral thrush can lose their sense of taste and experience redness, soreness, or a burning sensation that can cause difficulty in eating. Additionally, oral thrush can cause bleeding and denture stomatitis.
Research says that low levels of folate, iron, and vitamin B12 can be associated with the development of oral thrush. However, health experts also say that vitamin C deficiency can also be partly to blame as the condition thrives when low levels of antioxidants are present to ward off inflammation and infection.
