Folate Supplement Paola KS

By James Keough

To prevent neural tube defects—primarily spina bifida and anencephaly, which occur very early in pregnancy—public health authorities have long recommended that women of childbearing age take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily for four weeks prior to conception and all during the first trimester.

And since 1998, when the FDA forced food manufacturers to add folic acid to many grain products, neural birth defects have declined dramatically. Studies have also confirmed that our bodies absorb folic acid supplements more readily than the folates found naturally in food.

Now new research from Germany suggests that a biologically active derivative of folic acid, [6s]-5-MTHF, finds its way even more readily into red blood cells. The double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled intervention study found that after 24 weeks, women who received a daily dose of [6s]-5-MTHF equivalent to the recommended dose of folic acid had significantly higher levels of folate in their blood. After reviewing the study data, the researchers also suggested that the women start supplementing their diets 12 weeks prior to conception rather than just four to ensure adequate levels of plasma folate.

Author: James Keough

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