Folate 5-MTHF 400 mcg, 100 capsules

Folic acid versus active folate

Folic acid (also known as vitamin B11 or vitamin B9 in Germany and the USA) is found in food in various forms, including the most biologically active form 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). This is the natural form of folate that circulates in the blood. Folic acid refers to the artificially produced pteroylmonoglutamic acid used as a source in most folate supplements. Pteroylmonoglutamic acid is the most oxidised form of folate and is hardly or not at all contained in food in this form. The problem with folic acid is that a significant number of people have difficulty converting it into the biologically active 5-MTHF. This can result in supplements not being sufficiently effective and an unwanted build-up of unmetabolised folic acid. For these reasons, Vitals only uses Quatrefolic®, which contains 5-MTHF bound to glucosamine salt.

The development of Quatrefolic®

In the past, it was difficult to use active folate in food supplements due to its instability. However, the Italian developer Gnosis has succeeded in stabilising the folate form by combining it with a glucosamine salt (of plant origin). The result is Quatrefolic®, also known as "fourth generation folate" due to its higher bioavailability compared to three previous sources of folic acid or folate. These include folate from food, synthetic folic acid and 5-MTHF, which is bound to calcium salt. The latter has a significantly lower water solubility than 5-MTHF, which is bound to glucosamine salt. This explains the higher bioavailability of Quatrefolic®, as it is easier for the cells of the intestinal wall to absorb.

Functions of folate

Folate supports normal cell division and is therefore involved in the production of cells and tissues, including red and white blood cells. Folate can help reduce fatigue and support the normal function of the immune system by promoting regular haematopoiesis. 5-MTHF acts as a methyl donor in homocysteine metabolism, converting homocysteine to methionine (with the help of vitamins B6 and B12). Sufficient folate intake therefore has a positive influence on homocysteine metabolism. The main use of methionine is in the production of the methyl donor S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), which is involved in the synthesis of DNA, RNA, phospholipids, protein and neurotransmitters. Finally, folate is important for normal brain and nerve functions. It therefore promotes concentration, memory and mood.

Folate is particularly important for women during pregnancy and when trying to conceive

Folate helps to promote the growth of tissue during pregnancy. It is therefore involved in placenta formation and contributes to the normal development of the foetus. Therefore, the recommendation to consume folate (or folic acid) before and during pregnancy is well known. Increasing the active folate content in the blood to a sufficient level can take several weeks. It is therefore necessary and sensible to start supplementation at least four weeks before conception and to continue it until at least eight weeks after conception. Additional folate can also be taken throughout pregnancy. Mums-to-be are advised to use a pregnancy multivitamin supplement such as Every Day Mum, which includes folic acid as well as other essential nutrients.

Nutritive properties

• Folate contributes to the growth of maternal tissue during pregnancy and to normal amino acid synthesis. It has a function in cell division.
• Folate contributes to normal haematopoiesis and normal homocysteine metabolism.
• Folate contributes to normal mental function and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
• Folate contributes to the normal function of the immune system.

Nutritional declaration

*Reference value according to Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011

Ingredients

Rice flour (Oryza sativa), vegetarian capsule (pullulan, from fermented manioc starch), anti-caking agent (calcium salts of fatty acids), 5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine salt.

Recommended dosage

Take 1 capsule per day with water with a meal.

Storage instructions

Store in a cool, dry place away from light (not in the refrigerator).

Legal information

Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Food supplements are no substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.