Which Folate or Methylfolate Supplement is Right for You?

Navigating the world of supplements can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to folate and its various forms. With so many options on the market, it's easy to feel lost. Let's break down the key differences between folate, folic acid, and methylfolate to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Folate Family

Folate: This is the natural form of vitamin B9 found in foods like leafy green vegetables. However, it is unstable at room temperature and can easily be destroyed by heat.

Folic Acid: The synthetic form of folate, often added to fortified foods and supplements. While it can be converted into the active form, it requires a multi-step process that can be inefficient for some individuals.

Methyl folate: The active form of folate that your body can use directly.

Why L-Methylfolate Might Be the Better Choice

Genetic Variations: Many people have genetic variations, such as MTHFR mutations, that can hinder the conversion of folic acid into its active form. L-methylfolate, on the other hand, can be used directly, making it a more effective option for these individuals.

Brain Health: L-methylfolate can cross the blood-brain barrier, making it beneficial for cognitive function and mental health.

Reduced Risk of Health Issues: Unlike folic acid, L-methylfolate doesn't mask underlying vitamin B12 deficiency, reducing the risk of neurological damage.

Methylfolate is a more effective form of folate for pregnant women, especially those with MTHFR gene mutations. It bypasses the need for conversion, ensuring optimal nutrient absorption. This can lead to improved fertility, healthier fetal brain development, and reduced risk of birth defects, unlike folic acid. Unmetabolized folic acid has now been confirmed to be associated with lowering immune and autistic in kids. Folic acid is usually started to accumulate as unmetabolized folic acid when consuming more than 200 mcg/day, while the upper tolerable level is 1000 mcg/day.

All of The Alternative Names for Methylfolate

• L-methylfolate
• Levomefolic acid
• L-5-MTHF
• Cerebrofolate™
• L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate
• (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate
• (6S)-5-MTHFD-Methylfolate
• D-5-Methylfolate
• L-Methylfolate CalciumMetafolin®
• Methylfolate
• Quatrefolic®
• Quatrefolic®
• (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate
• 5-Methylfolate
• 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate
• 5-MTHF
• Extrafolate®
• Magnafolate®

What is not methylfolate?

Leucovorin Calcium

Calcium folinate

Folic acid (a synthetic form of folate often used in supplements and fortified foods)

Folinic acid(

6R)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate

(6R)-5-MTHF

Choosing the Right Methylfolate: A Guide

For individuals with MTHFR gene mutations, L-Methylfolate, L-5-MTHF, or L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate are the most suitable forms of folate. These bioavailable forms can be directly utilized by the body, bypassing the need for conversion.

When selecting a supplement, look for labels that include:

L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate, Calcium

(6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid

Calcium salt L-methylfolate

(6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid monosodium salt

L-methyltetrahydrofolate, glucosamine salt

These forms ensure optimal absorption and utilization, supporting overall health and well-being.

Avoid These Ineffective Folate Forms

Folic Acid: This synthetic form requires conversion to be usable, which can be inefficient for many people, especially those with MTHFR gene mutations.

D-Forms and (6R) Forms of Methylfolate: These less active forms are often found in lower-quality supplements. They may not provide the same benefits as L-methylfolate.

To ensure you're getting the most effective form of folate, look for L-methylfolate on the supplement label. Innolife 's Methylfolate is L-methylfolate.

Understanding Methylfolate Isomers

Methylfolate exists in various isomeric forms, but the most biologically active is the L-isomer, specifically the (6S, αS) configuration. This natural form is easily recognized and utilized by the body.

Conversely, the D-isomer, or (6R, αS) configuration, is considered inactive and may even be harmful. It's essential to choose methylfolate supplements that explicitly specify the L-isomer or (6S) isomer to ensure optimal absorption and utilization.

The Stability of L-Methylfolate

L-methylfolate stability is crucial for its potency. Crystalline forms, with their stable molecular structure, are more resistant to degradation from factors like light, heat, and moisture.

Amorphous forms, on the other hand, are less stable and may degrade more easily. To ensure optimal potency, it's essential to choose L-methylfolate supplements from reputable brands that prioritize product quality and stability.

The type of methylfolate salt in a supplement significantly impacts its stability and effectiveness. Lower-quality salts may degrade faster, potentially leading to harmful byproducts. Opt for supplements with high-quality, stable methylfolate salts.

Metafolin stands out as the most potent L-methylfolate available. With 80% free methylfolate, it offers superior bioavailability compared to L-5-MTHF glucosamine, which contains only about 52%. This means that each milligram of Metafolin provides 0.8 milligrams of directly absorbable L-methylfolate.

Quatrefolic® vs Metafolin®

Quatrefolic® is a unique form of L-methylfolate bound to a glucosamine salt molecule. While it offers rapid absorption, its potency diminishes faster than crystalline forms. Due to its larger molecular size, it requires higher dosages compared to calcium salt-based L-methylfolate. While it's marketed as the most bioavailable form, this doesn't necessarily translate to superior overall effectiveness.

Metafolin®, the first patented form of L-methylfolate, is a stable, crystalline calcium salt. It's a key ingredient in various prescription medical foods, including Deplin® for depression, Neevo® for pregnancy, Metanx® for diabetic neuropathy, and Cerefolin® for cognitive health. Metafolin® is a benchmark for quality and efficacy in L-methylfolate supplementation.

As of now, Metafolin is the only FDA-approved methylfolate in Thailand.