Folic Acid vs Folate: Understanding the Difference and the Role of Quatrefolic®
When it comes to prenatal and pregnancy nutrition, folic acid is often the first supplement that comes to mind. Women are widely advised to include it in their diet to support a healthy pregnancy and the proper development of their baby. However, folic acid and folate are not the same, despite the terms often being used interchangeably. Understanding the difference is essential, as this vitamin plays a critical role in preventing neural tube defects, supporting red blood cell production and aiding maternal tissue growth. Deficiencies can have serious health implications for both mother and child, making the right form of supplementation crucial.
What’s the Difference?
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is a naturally occurring nutrient found in leafy greens, broccoli and liver. In contrast, folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, used in supplements and added to foods to enhance their nutritional value. While both provide essential B vitamins, neither are biologically active in their original form.
To be absorbed and utilised by the body, folate must first be converted into methyltetrahydrofolate (MTHF). This process allows it to support vital functions, including DNA synthesis, cell growth and nervous system health. The issue, however, is that not everyone’s body can efficiently carry out this conversion.
Why Some People Struggle to Process Folic Acid
Recent research has revealed that a significant portion of the population has a genetic variation that affects their ability to properly metabolise folic acid and folate. This occurs due to differences in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme, which is responsible for converting folate into its active form.
For those with low-functioning or altered MTHFR enzymes, unprocessed folic acid can build up in the bloodstream rather than being effectively used by the body. This raises concerns about potential health risks, including imbalances in methylation, which is crucial for detoxification, DNA repair and neurological function.
Optimised Folate for Better Absorption
At Food Grown, we prioritise supplements that are highly bioavailable, easy to digest, and free from unnecessary additives. Our Food Grown Folate with Quatrefolic® delivers folate in its most active and readily available form, ensuring optimal absorption and effective support for red blood cell production, healthy cell function and overall well-being.
Folate plays a particularly vital role in reducing the risk of birth defects, supporting brain and skull development in infants and optimising cognitive and nervous system health. Since not everyone can efficiently convert folic acid into its usable form, supplementing with Quatrefolic® provides a direct, reliable source of this essential nutrient. According to an article published by Quatrefolic®, folate is not just essential for pregnancy but also supports mood balance, cognitive function and developmental health in children.
Each capsule contains 400 mcg of Quatrefolic® folate, meeting the full recommended daily intake in just one dose. With a clean, vegan-friendly formulation free from GMOs, it’s designed for anyone looking to enhance their folate intake—whether you’re preparing for pregnancy, expecting a child or simply committed to maintaining lifelong health. This advanced form of folate ensures your body gets exactly what it needs.
