Folic acid (Vitamin B9 or folate) is one of the most popular vitamins, especially when it comes to attempts at pregnancy, healthy pregnancy and women’s health. Its name comes from the Latin word “folium”, which means leaf. All leafy vegetables are among the best dietary sources of folate. The terms folic acid and folate are often used interchangeably, but in practice they are different chemical compounds with potentially different effects on health. Folate is a naturally occurring form of vitamin B9. Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9 and occurs naturally in food, but in very small concentrations.