Dr. Alexa Neynaber was recently featured in What’s Good by V in an article by Sarah Garone, N.D.T.R.
Read the full article here: https://whatsgood.vitaminshoppe.com/folate-vs-folic-acid/
Folate and folic acid are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Both are forms of vitamin B9, which is essential for cell growth and development, but they have different chemical structures and functions in the body.
Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 that is found in foods such as leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, and whole grains. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is easily absorbed by the body and used to make DNA and other genetic material. Folate is also important for red blood cell production and helps to prevent birth defects in developing fetuses.
Folic acid, on the other hand, is a synthetic form of vitamin B9 that is added to fortified foods and dietary supplements. It was first synthesized in the 1940s as a way to prevent folate deficiency anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. Folic acid is more stable than folate and can be easily converted into its active form in the body.
While both folate and folic acid are important for overall health, there are some key differences between them. For example, folate is more easily absorbed by the body than folic acid, especially for people with certain genetic variations that affect how they metabolize folate. Folate also has a lower risk of toxicity than folic acid, which can accumulate in the body if taken in excessive amounts.
Another important difference between folate and folic acid is their role in cancer prevention. Some studies have suggested that high levels of folic acid may increase the risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer. However, other studies have found that folate from food sources may actually reduce the risk of cancer.
So which form of vitamin B9 should you choose? The answer depends on your individual needs and health status. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to get enough folate from food sources or supplements to help prevent birth defects. If you have a history of cancer or are at high risk for certain types of cancer, it may be best to avoid high doses of folic acid supplements.
In general, it is always a good idea to get your nutrients from whole foods whenever possible. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help ensure that you get all the vitamins and minerals your body needs to stay healthy.
