5-MTHF 1 mg 60 Vegetarian Capsules

5-MTHF (also known as 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate) is a biologically active form of folic acid – which some even consider as a breakthrough in folate supplementation.

This 5-MTHF supplement, by Thorne Research, is an excellent source of folate for pregnant women or anyone who wants to ensure they are getting appropriate levels of folate. Folate is essential to support nerve and cardiovascular function. As with most Thorne Research products, this 5-MTHF does not have preservatives, magnesium stearate or other diluents and lubricants. This supplement has been produced without inhibiting flowing agents.

About the 5-MTHF Form of Folic Acid

In order to be effective, folic acid must be converted to an active form. This is a biochemical process that occurs in many steps within the liver and intestines. In people who have liver dysfunction or intestinal issues, the folic acid may not be converted sufficiently enough for your body to be able to use it. Another portion of the population (up to one-third of us) may have an enzyme defect that blocks them from converting the folic acid to 5-MTHF. These groups of people can benefit from supplementing with the already active form of folic acid, 5-MTHF.

Folic Acid Deficiency

Pregnant women are advised by their doctors to supplement with folic acid because the results of a folic acid deficiency can be devastating to a fetus. Mothers with folic acid deficiencies are more likely to have children with low birth weights and neural tube defects. This is why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all women of childbearing age supplement with folic acid. The recommendation is meant to ensure women have sufficient levels of folate when they need it most, in the first trimester of pregnancy. During much of this time, a woman may not even know she’s pregnant.

A folic acid deficiency does not only affect pregnant women. It can occur in anyone who does not get enough folate from their diet or in people with certain medical issues, including alcoholism, sickle cell disease or kidney problems. Certain medications can also cause a folic acid deficiency. Folic acid is actually one of the B vitamins. It is crucial to helping yoru body produce new red blood cells. Without the appropriate amount of red blood cells, you will be at risk for anemia, a condition that results in severe fatigue, lightheadedness, forgetfulness, irritability, weight loss and lack of concentration. If you think you have folic acid anemia, talk to your doctor about your symptoms and request a blood test. Since folic acid works closely with vitamin B12, you may also be tested for a B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 and 5-MTHF function together as a methyl-group donor to help convert homocysteine to methionine. This is a vital part of various biochemical conversions, so you must maintain adequate levels of both vitamins.

In addition to a 5-MTHF supplement, you can also add more folic acid to your diet in the form of citrus fruits, fortified cereals and green leafy vegetables.