Folate and folic acid are different forms of vitamin B9.

 

While there’s a distinct difference between the two, their names are often used interchangeably. In fact, there’s a lot of confusion regarding folic acid and folate, even among professionals.

 

FOLIC ACID & FOLATE FAST FACTS:

 

 Folate is the naturally  occurring form of vitamin B9. Before entering your bloodstream, your digestive system converts it into the biologically active form of vitamin B9 ⁠— 5-MTHF.

 

 Folic acid is a SYNTHETIC  form of vitamin B9. Your body does not convert it into active vitamin B9 very well, so unmetabolized folic acid may build up in your bloodstream.

 

 High levels of unmetabolized folic acid can negatively affect one’s health. 

 

 The healthiest dietary sources of vitamin B9 are whole foods, such as leafy green vegetables. If you have to take supplements, methylated folate is the best alternative to folic acid. 

 ALL women need 400 micrograms of folate every day. If a woman has sufficient folate in her body BEFORE and DURING pregnancy, major birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine can be prevented.

 

BOTTOM LINE: Folate is the NATURAL  form of vitamin B9 in food, while folic acid is a SYNTHETIC form. High intake of folic acid may lead to increased blood levels of unmetabolized folic acid which may have adverse health effects over time.

 

Soooooo… FOLATE >>> FOLIC ACID . CHOOSE YOUR PRENATAL VITAMINS WISELY.