You spoke and we listened! We are making the change to Methylfolate.
At The Veggie Doctor™ we pride ourselves at listening to our customers and we are making the change to Methlyfolate in place of Folic Acid (synthetic B9). We are happy to say that moving forward any of our products containing Folic Acid will be replaced with Methylfolate starting with Luxor™ Vegan Collagen.
Why is Folic Acid in most multivitamins?
In one word: COST! Unfortunately, many supplement companies make their products with the least expensive forms of vitamins in mind. Folic Acid is much cheaper that the active form Methylfolate. Methylfolate will now be used in our products at no extra cost to you.
What is Methylfolate?
Folate or Folic Acid is Vitamin B9. Folic Acid is the synthetic form of Folate. The human body does not produce Folate, so Folic Acid is used to fortify foods or taken through dietary supplements. Still, it has been found that certain genetic mutations cannot convert Folic Acid to Folate efficiently. This can lead to folate deficiency, impacting essential processes like DNA synthesis, amino acid metabolism, red blood cell production, and neurotransmitter function. These deficiencies have been linked to various health conditions, including major depressive disorder and increased risk of birth defects.
Methylfolate is the more biologically active form of Folate that can be more easily synthesized, readily absorbed, and able to cross the blood brain barrier. This natural form of Folate is better for those with conversion difficulties or specific health conditions requiring optimal folate metabolism.
Why did we make the change to Methylfolate?
The MTHFR enzyme is found throughout the body and it converts folic acid or folate in its active form L-methylfolate. Methylfolate plays an active role in producing red blood cells, DNA biosynthesis, maintaining DNA, supporting immune function and energy production. It also aids in the production of neurotransmitters in your brain, such as serotonin, dopamine and epinephrine. Because of this, Methylfolate is best for people with MTHFR mutation.
The MTHFR mutation is very common and up to 60 percent of people may have at least one genetic mutation in their MTHFR gene. This gene provides instructions to your body to make an enzyme that converts folic acid into the active form L-methylfolate. If you have two genetic mutations in your MTHFR gene, your ability to convert Folic Acid into the active form is reduced by an estimated 70 percent. Women with this genetic mutation may have an increased risk of migraines. Infertility and neural tube defects during pregnancy.
Methylfolate requires less conversions and can start working right away. Methylfolate is already in its’ active form and does not need the MTHFR enzyme and can start working right away. Folic Acid requires four conversions and is highly dependent on individual genetics and other nutrients for an effective conversion.
Methylfolate Used For
Methylfolate is crucial in various bodily functions and essential for overall health. It's commonly used to promote mental well-being, improve energy levels, and support cardiovascular health. Additionally, methylfolate is vital during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects, making it a key nutrient for fetal development and maternal health. Consult a licensed health care professional to determine if methylfolate is right for you.