Choosing between methylfolate, folate and folic acid

Folate (vitamin B9) is an essential nutrient required for DNA replication; in addition, it is a substrate necessary for a number of enzymatic reactions that occur during the synthesis of amino acids and metabolism of vitamins. The need for folate increases during pregnancy because it is needed for the growth and development of the fetus. Folate deficiency is associated with the development of disorders in both the mother (anemia, peripheral neuropathy) and the fetus (congenital anomalies). Taking folic acid (FA) supplements before and after conception has long been known to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in children [1–4]. This article reviews the metabolism of FA, the appropriate use of FA supplementation during pregnancy, and the potential benefits of FA, as well as the potential for L-methylfolate supplementation to prevent complications during pregnancy not related to neural tube defects.

Methylfolate: folic acid

Methylfolate is nothing more than one of the most biologically active forms of folic acid (vitamin B9). As is known, folic acid plays a very important role for human health, but in its pure form it is unable to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (the barrier between the circulatory and central nervous systems). Only after a number of transformations, under the influence of special enzymes, this acid is transformed into more accessible forms of folate, including methylfolate . However, these metabolic processes do not occur in the same way for everyone. Some people have mutations in certain genes (for example, MTHFR), which impair the adequate conversion of vitamin B9 into a bioavailable form. In other words, they absorb folic acid very poorly or not at all. It is in such cases that drugs with methylfolate are especially relevant. Unlike folic acid, it is easily absorbed into the circulatory system and consumed by cells. An important advantage of using methylfolate is that in this case there is no risk of accumulation of unchanged folate in the blood, and it itself does not pose a toxic danger to the body.

Which form do you prefer?

We have already described above what kind of vitamin this is – methylfolate. But it has many forms, so it may be difficult to choose a drug:

1. Methylfolate. This form is the most active. The use of L-methylfolate is most preferable for people who have the MTHFR mutation. But there are people who suffer from intolerance to methylated forms. Folin acid is more suitable for these people instead of methylfolates.
2. Folinic acid is also a type of folate, but it does not require reduction and the participation of the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. Sometimes experts recommend the combined use of methylfolate and folinic acid, especially if there is a B12 deficiency. Sometimes its transformation is also prevented by gene mutations, but it does not increase homocysteine ​​and does not hide B12 deficiency.

When assessing the difference between these forms, it is important to consider the side effects that may occur with their use. They have virtually no differences and manifest themselves in the form of rashes or excessive irritability, as well as sleep disorders. When taking folic acid, strict monitoring is necessary in the presence of bipolar affective disorders; the drug can also provoke muscle pain. And folinic acid provokes the development of side effects much less frequently and has a mild antidepressant and calming effect, which is the main difference between these drugs.

If no adverse reactions occur, then experts recommend combining folates from natural products or other sources at the same time. If there are adverse reactions, you will have to choose an individual regimen for taking B9, adding various amino acids or vitamin components.

Methylfolate: composition

As already mentioned, methylfolate is part of the folate group - various forms of water-soluble folic acid. These compounds are not synthesized by the body and come from food or in the form of dietary supplements. Sources of folate are:

• legumes,
• green leafy vegetables,
• liver,
• egg yolk,
• citrus.

However, most of these folates are not metabolically active compounds. In order to participate in metabolic processes, they need to undergo a complex transformation process and only methylfolate easily penetrates the central nervous system.

Methylfolate: properties

Since methylfolate is a form of folic acid, it has the same properties as folic acid:

1. participates in the formation of nitric oxide from arginine;
2. controls the level of homocysteine ​​in blood plasma;
3. influences the efficiency of neural transmitters and is responsible for cognitive functions;
4. plays a significant role in the process of physiological division and growth of all cells in the body.

Thus, methylfolate is a very promising drug for the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including psychosomatic disorders and depression.

In addition, methylfolate , unlike folic acid, has the ability to restore endothelial cell function in patients with hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disease characterized by high levels of cholesterol in the blood.

Methylfolate: homocysteine

According to scientists, the most important merit of methylfolate is its ability to influence the amount of the amino acid homocysteine ​​(methionine metabolic product) in the body. More than 80 studies show that increased homocysteine ​​levels are fraught with an increase in the number of free radicals and the development of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, heart attack, hemorrhage and thrombosis. In addition, deviations in quantitative homocysteine ​​levels can negatively affect the health of pregnant women and lead to irreversible consequences for the fetus. The main role in controlling the level of this amino acid in the body belongs to three vitamins: vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folic acid, but it is the latter in the form of methylfolate that is most effective.

Methylfolate: during pregnancy

Today methylfolate , along with magnesium and vitamin A, is increasingly recommended during pregnancy as a preventative measure against the development of intrauterine fetal malformations. We are talking, first of all, about neural tube defects, the incidence of which on average in Russia is approximately 0.5%. This congenital malformation is one of the causes of child mortality and disability, so the main medical task is to prevent such disorders.

Studies show that additional consumption of folic acid a month before and a month after conception reduces the risk of developing this defect by 60-100%, since this vitamin plays a critical role in the formation of the vascular bed of the placenta. In addition, folic acid prevents the occurrence of other congenital defects, such as heart defects and underdevelopment of limbs.

On top of this, a lack of folate during pregnancy often leads to premature birth and low birth weight of newborns.

Thus, folic acid is one of the most important nutrients for the proper intrauterine development of a child.

Meanwhile, according to statistics, recently, among women with difficult pregnancies, cases of MTHFR gene defect are becoming more common. The use of regular folic acid in this case is ineffective, therefore, to compensate for its deficiency, it is more advisable to use methylfolate .

Indications for the use of metafolin supplements

For more than 70 years, scientists have extensively studied all the benefits and possible harms of metafolin. Many RCTs and meta-analyses confirm that taking the substance from supplements is completely safe. Severe deficiency of vitamin B9 is extremely rare; this happens in case of intestinal dysfunction (due to illness or other reasons). But minor shortages are common. The main symptoms that suggest a deficiency of the substance are:

• Deterioration in sleep quality;
• Depressive states and worsening mood;
• More pronounced mood swings and emotional instability during PMS in women;
• Increased weakness, lethargy and drowsiness;
• Frequent headaches that occur for no apparent reason;
• Deterioration of skin health, dullness and appearance of skin defects;
• Deterioration of hair health, acceleration of baldness;
• Numbness in the limbs.

The substance is usually prescribed by a doctor. Given how beneficial metafolin is for women, it is recommended to take two courses per year to prevent deficiency. In this case, a doctor's prescription is not required.

Methylfolate: dietary supplement

According to numerous studies, modern people consume significantly less folate than necessary. methylfolate help fill this deficiency . Pharmaceutical companies offer a wide selection of such drugs, and they can be either single-component or complex, with the addition of B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D3 and other nutrients.

Methylfolate: capsules

The most popular form of vitamin preparations, including methylfolate , are traditionally capsules.

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1. An example of such a product is “Methyl Folate” (400 mcg, 60 capsules) from Jarrow Formulas . It is manufactured using Quatrefolic fourth-generation folate production technology, which provides a more stable and highly concentrated biological compound. This form of folate is necessary for people who, due to any hereditary metabolic abnormalities or psychological factors, have impaired transformation of folic acid. This dietary supplement provides support for the nervous and cardiovascular systems, improves cell division, and reduces the risk of having children with spinal cord and brain defects.

Directions for use: Take 1 capsule daily with food.

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1. Among complex food supplements with methyl phtholate , “B-Right” vitamins (100 capsules) from the same company Jarrow Formulas . methylfolate itself , as a fourth generation form of folic acid, this optimized complex includes a number of B vitamins in high concentrations, namely:

• thiamine (vitamin B1),
• riboflavin (vitamin B2),
• niacin (vitamin B3),
• choline (vitamin B4),
• vitamin B5,
• pantethine (vitamin B5 derivative),
• vitamin B6,
• biotin,
• vitamin B12,
• inositol

Directions for use: Take 1 capsule daily, preferably with meals or as directed by a healthcare practitioner.

TOP 5 supplements in the form of 5-MTHF

Folates should not only be taken by pregnant women; they are recommended during the preconception stage for both potential parents. Sufficient folate content eliminates miscarriages and minimizes the likelihood of premature birth, eliminates delays in fetal development, and also improves the quality of seminal material in men. Adequate consumption of folates minimizes the risks of developing cancer pathologies, has a beneficial effect on the mucous membranes, and promotes their rapid recovery. A sufficient level of folate also has a positive effect on other intraorganic structures, improves the condition of the skin, hair, etc. We can highlight the TOP 5 folic acid supplements in the form of metafolin.

Fully Active Folate 800, Doctor¢s Best (USA)

Doctor's Best, Active Folate 800, 800 mcg, 60 Veggie Caps

682 rub.

More details

The package of the drug contains 60 capsules of the drug containing 800 mcg of the active substance - methyltetrahydrofolate. The auxiliary composition is represented by microcrystalline cellulose and vegetarian capsule (modified cellulose). The drug has many advantages:

1. Participated in scientific research.
2. Recommended for pregnant women as it ensures healthy fetal development.
3. Contains the folate form of folic acid – Quatrefolic.
4. This is a vegetarian, gluten-free and GMO-free dietary supplement.

This is the best bioactive form of B9 with Quatrefolic. It is recommended to take 1 capsule per day, preferably between meals or according to the regimen recommended by your doctor. Taking metafolin according to the instructions ensures the healthy development of the fetal spine and brain. In adults, folate supplementation helps support brain function and emotional health. The drug is absorbed in the small intestine, which ensures better folate absorption. There is a similar drug from the same manufacturer and with the same name, the only difference is in the dosage, which is 400 mcg of methylfolate, and 90 capsules are placed in a jar.

Methyl Folate, Now Foods (USA)

Now Foods, Methyl Folate, 1,000 mcg, 90 Tablets

876 rub.

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The drug belongs to dietary supplements based on natural active methylfolate. Additional composition is represented by cellulose and vegetable stearic acid, silica. The package contains 90 or 120 tablets containing 1000 or 5000 mcg of the active ingredient. The tool has a number of features:

• does not contain animal components, vegetarian product;
• enriched with Co-enzyme B vitamin;
• characterized by increased bioavailability;
• no GMOs;
• passed the necessary studies and has quality guarantees.

You need to take the dietary supplement with food, one tablet once a day. The drug is intended exclusively for adult patients. When taken by the elderly or those who have problems absorbing B12, it is necessary to monitor the level of this vitamin in the body. Reviews of methylfolate prove its effectiveness. Users claim that vitamins are easy to take, they do not cause discomfort, do not leave an aftertaste, are easy to swallow, and test results return to normal after 2-3 weeks of taking them.

Optimized Folate, Life Extension (USA)

Life Extension, Optimized Folate, 100 mcg, 100 Veggie Tablets

881 rub.

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This is optimized folic acid or methylfolate in the metabolically active form of methyl acid. The package contains 100 tablets containing 1000 mcg of active ingredient each. Auxiliary components are: MCC, silica, dicalcium phosphate, stearic acid and croscarmellose sodium, vegetable stearate.

Optimized folate is a non-GMO dietary supplement. Take 1 tablet per day according to the instructions or according to the regimen recommended by the doctor. Patients are often advised to take a similar form of methylfolate throughout pregnancy, but they should still avoid self-medication and consult their doctors first.

The supplement has several different dosages. In addition to the described option, you can buy a pack of 30 tablets with a dosage of 5000 mcg of metafolin (methylfolate) each. A pronounced result, as confirmed by laboratory tests, is observed after a couple of weeks of use, but to complete the course you need to finish the package. If necessary, your doctor will prescribe additional methylfolate.

5-MTHF, Thorne Research (USA)

Thorne Research, 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate, 1 mg, 60 Capsules

RUB 1,615

More details

Dietary supplement based on the active form of folate. The package contains 30 or 60 capsules containing 1, 5 or 15 mg of the active ingredient. Excipients: MCC, hypromellose, silicon dioxide and leucine. According to the instructions, you should take 1-3 capsules. per day. Pregnant women should definitely consult a doctor about taking this form of B9.

5-MTHF dietary supplement provides cardiovascular health, supports nervous system functions, helps maintain excellent psycho-emotional health and is beneficial for fetal development. Prescribed to patients who have problems absorbing regular folic acid.

The supplement is indicated for pregnant women and women preparing to conceive. It provides the full content of vitamin B9 in the first trimester of gestation, when the body of the mother and the embryo especially needs it. Folic acid in this form helps normalize homocysteine ​​levels, preventing many of the adverse effects associated with an excess of this amino acid.

QuatreActiv Folate, Allergy Research Group (USA)

— 20%

Allergy Research Group, QuatreActiv 4th Generation Phtholate 5-MTHF, 90 Capsules

RUB 1,480 RUB 1,184

More details

Hypoallergenic food supplement based on folate or folic acid in the form of fourth generation Quatrefolic. Excipients are: MCC, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, l-leucine. The package contains 90 capsules with the main active substance 5-MTHF.

1. The instructions recommend taking the supplement one capsule 1-2 times a day or according to the regimen recommended by the doctor.
2. Each capsule contains 500 mcg of 5-MTHF.
3. The capsules do not contain GMOs or components of animal origin.
4. The product is completely vegetarian.
5. Take only on the advice of a specialist.
6. The supplement is especially recommended for the treatment of chronic fatigue and depressive conditions, degenerative changes in the peripheral nervous system, as well as for maintaining cardiovascular structures and brain activity.

Pregnant patients should undergo preliminary examination before taking QuatreActiv Folate supplement, since self-medication may lead to unpredictable consequences. Only a doctor can choose the safest regimen for taking methylfolate, as well as determine the optimal duration of therapy.

Methylfolate: Solgar 400 mcg tablets

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1. One of the best dietary supplements with methylfolate are “Folate” tablets (666 mcg, 100 pcs) from the famous American manufacturer Solgar . The active folate in the form of metafolin contained in each tablet helps support heart and nervous system health, as well as the formation of red blood cells.

Recommendations for use: take 1 tablet 2 times a day, preferably with food.

Methylfolate: analogues

Methylfolate is a unique compound of its kind, so it has no absolute analogues. However, in terms of their ability to influence homocysteine ​​levels in the body, there are dietary supplements with similar effects. First of all, we are talking about B vitamins and, above all, folic acid. With normal metabolism, preparations of this vitamin do an excellent job and can be recommended as a measure to maintain adequate homocysteine ​​levels, like methylfolate .

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1. Solgar are excellent for replenishing folic acid . This company is one of the oldest of its kind. Since 1947, it has been producing high-quality and environmentally friendly products, the effectiveness of which cannot be doubted. This drug is recommended for maintaining heart and vascular health, strengthening the nervous system, successfully bearing a child, reducing homocysteine ​​in the blood and the formation of red blood cells.

Recommendations for use: take 1-2 tablets per day, preferably with food.

Not long ago it was discovered that it is possible to lower homocysteine ​​levels with the help of Omega-3.

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1. For this you can use Omega-3 capsules (1000 mg, 180 capsules) from Now Foods . They are made from natural fish oil that meets the strictest GMP quality control standards. Each capsule contains 120 mg of docosahexaenoic acid and 180 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid.

Directions for use: Take 2 capsules twice daily with food.

TOP 3 supplements based on synthetic folic acid

Regular synthetic folic acid, as mentioned above, brings much less benefit to the body, therefore, if you have the opportunity to buy methylfolate, it is better to give preference to this particular type of substance. Yes, the price of methylfolate is slightly higher than supplements with a synthetic component, but it is safer and more effective, eliminating the accumulation of excess homocysteine ​​and unmetabolized folic acid. Among the many additives with regular Folic Acid, three of the best can be identified; they are worth considering in more detail.

Folic Acid, Solgar (USA)

Solgar, Folic Acid, 800 mcg, 250 Tablets

923 rub.

More details

The supplement contains synthetic folic acid in amounts of 400 and 800 mcg in each tablet. There are a total of 250 tablets in the bottle. The main component is Folic Acid, and the auxiliary components are represented by MCC and vegetable stearic acid, silicon dioxide. The drug has proven itself well among patients and has a number of features:

1. It has been successfully operating on the market for more than 70 years.
2. Does not contain dairy products. Gluten or wheat components.
3. It is a bioactive supplement that can be successfully taken by vegetarians.
4. A kosher product, that is, it falls under the requirements of proper nutrition.
5. Recommended for maintaining the functioning of the cardiovascular system, to ensure full intrauterine fetal development. If a pregnant woman’s body has sufficient levels of metabolized folic acid, then the risk of giving birth to a child with nervous system, brain or spinal defects is minimized.

The dietary supplement is intended for adult patients only. The tablets should be taken with food, one tablet per day. If necessary, the doctor adjusts the dosage and dosage regimen at his own discretion. It is recommended to take Folic Acid only after consulting a doctor; self-medication is unacceptable.

Detailed review

Folic acid, Sundown Naturals (USA)

Sundown Naturals, Folic Acid, 400 mcg, 350 Tablets

337 rub.

More details

Another popular dietary supplement among patients, which has proven itself well, as proven by customer reviews. The drug is sold in a dosage of 400 mcg/350 tablets or 800 mcg/100 tablets. The main component is Folic Acid, auxiliary components are calcium carbonate and vegetable cellulose, vegetable magnesium stearate and silica. Features of the supplement from Sundown Naturals (USA):

1. The vitamin supplement is excellent for maintaining the activity of the vascular system, heart, and brain structures.
2. Contains no dairy ingredients, gluten, lactose or GMOs, artificial flavors, preservatives or any non-natural colors.
3. Suitable for vegetarians.
4. When taken by pregnant women, it reduces the risk of having a child with vertebral or brain abnormalities.

You need to take 1-2 tablets per day as recommended by your doctor. It is better to combine the intake with food to ensure more active absorption of the components.

Folic Acid, 21st Century (USA)

21st Century, Folic Acid, 400 mcg, 250 Tablets

233 rub.

More details

21st Century's synthetic folic acid supplement comes in tablets packaged in 250/400 mcg or 180/800 mcg bottles. The auxiliary composition contains substances such as maltodextrin and croscarmellose sodium, cellulose and stearic acid, silicon dioxide and magnesium stearate. The maximum daily dosage should not exceed 1000 mcg of the active ingredient.

Advantages of the product from 21st Century:

• vitamin supplement to support heart health;
• contains no gluten;
• the drug has been laboratory tested and has quality guarantees;
• The tablets are small and easy to swallow;
• contains essential vitamin B9, necessary for humans;
• has mostly positive reviews;
• Contains no dyes, preservatives, additives, yeast or sugar.

You should take one tablet per day with food. You should take folic acid only as directed by your doctor. It is especially important to first consult with a specialist for persons with any pathologies, as well as for nursing or pregnant women.

Methylfolate: instructions

methylfolate supplements , be sure to follow the recommendations in the supplement instructions. The concentration of the active substance in different drugs can vary widely, and since an overdose of folates can have extremely adverse consequences, this information should be treated very carefully.

Methylfolate: how to take

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In order for medications with methylfolate to be exclusively beneficial, you need to know how to take them correctly. The dosage of such supplements depends on how much active substance is contained in one tablet or capsule. In most cases, metafolin is available in dosages of 200 mcg or 400 mcg.

According to experts, the preventative daily dose of methylfolate for an adult is 200-400 mcg. During pregnancy, the daily norm increases to 600-800 mcg. In order to reduce homocysteine ​​levels, it is recommended to take about 800-1000 mcg of metafolin per day. Methylfolate consumed with food.

Best Metafolin Supplements

There are not many manufacturers that produce metafolin. Most often, large brands produce folic acid, which is inferior in bioavailability. The highest quality and effective supplements with metafolin are produced by the Solgar brand. The company produces supplements in various packaging and dosages that suit any purpose of administration:

• Solgar Folate as Metafolin 400 mcg is an optimal preventative supplement for men and women;
• Solgar Folate Metafolin 666 mcg is a good option for women and men who are planning a pregnancy;
• Solgar Folate as Metafolin 800 mcg - usually prescribed by doctors during pregnancy. For a preventive course of treatment, such an amount of the substance is not required;
• Solgar Folate 1333 mcg as Metafolin is the highest dosage per serving supplement in the Solgar line. Usually prescribed in cases where increased amounts of vitamin B9 are needed during pregnancy. It can also be prescribed in the later stages of pregnancy to reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Methylfolate: reviews

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Reviews of methylfolate are mostly positive. We are mainly talking about the ability of this compound to affect the amount of homocysteine ​​in the blood of pregnant women. People taking methylfolate for neurological reasons note a significant improvement in their condition - attacks of depression and anxiety disappear, and sleep improves. In general, medications containing methylfolate are well tolerated and do not cause any side effects.

Methylfolate: price

The price of methylfolate is slightly higher than folic acid. This is explained by the fact that the production technology of this drug is much more complex. However, it is fair to note that methylfolate is much more effective than regular folic acid, and therefore its price is well justified. In order not to overpay for nutritional supplements, it is best to use an online store that cooperates directly with manufacturers. The most famous and reliable of them is the site below. Here you can buy not only methylfolate , but also a lot of other less common, but very useful supplements, for example, coenzyme Q10, hyaluronic acid, fat burners, benfotiamine and methylsulfonylmethane at a price several times lower than in Russian online pharmacies.

Where to buy drugs

You can buy folic acid or folate supplements at your local pharmacy, online stores, or on iHerb. The price range is quite wide, so choosing the best option is not easy.

The lowest prices for folic acid are in the well-known online store iHerb. From other sellers the cost will be 30-50% higher. You can check it yourself.

There is a discount of up to 10% on iHerb using this promotional code:

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