{"product_id":"dr-clark-folic-acid-supplement-1mg-100-capsules-b004spcbo6","title":"Dr. Clark Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) Supplement – 1mg, 100 Gelatine Capsules, Essential B Vitamin for Daily Health","description":"\u003ch2\u003eWhat Is Folic Acid?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFolic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is a water-soluble B vitamin that the body cannot produce, so it must be obtained through diet or supplementation. It plays a vital role in DNA synthesis, cell division and red blood cell formation. This makes it particularly important during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWho Should Consider Taking Folic Acid?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile folic acid benefits everyone, certain groups may need supplementation. Women planning a pregnancy or those who are pregnant are often advised to take folic acid to support normal growth of the baby. Individuals with a diet low in folate-rich foods, older adults with absorption issues, and those with MTHFR gene variations may also benefit. As with any supplement, it is wise to consult a health care professional before starting.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eRecommended Dosage\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the UK, the reference nutrient intake (RNI) for most adults is 200 mcg of folic acid per day, rising to 300 mcg during pregnancy and 260 mcg while breastfeeding. This product provides 1,000 mcg (1 mg) per capsule, which is within the tolerable upper intake level of 1,000 mcg per day but above the general RNI. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist to determine the appropriate dose for your individual needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eKey Health Benefits\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFolic acid contributes to several important functions in the body, as recognised by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). These include:\u003cbr\u003e- Normal red blood cell formation\u003cbr\u003e- Normal homocysteine metabolism\u003cbr\u003e- Normal immune function\u003cbr\u003e- Normal psychological function\u003cbr\u003e- Normal energy-yielding metabolism\u003cbr\u003e- Maternal tissue growth during pregnancy\u003cbr\u003eThese benefits highlight why adequate intake is essential for overall health and wellbeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFolic Acid vs Methylfolate: Which Is Better?\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFolic acid is the synthetic form of vitamin B9, while methylfolate (5-MTHF) is the active form that the body can use directly. Some individuals, particularly those with MTHFR gene variants, may have difficulty converting folic acid into the active form. For these people, methylfolate may be more effective. However, for most of the population, folic acid is efficiently converted and remains the well-studied, standard form used in supplements and fortified foods. This product contains folic acid.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eHow to Choose a Quality Supplement\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eLook for supplements that have been independently tested for purity and potency. Choose clean Formulae without unnecessary additives. Dr. Clark Folic Acid is free from manufacturing agents such as magnesium stearate, silica, dioxides, sulphates, starch, soy, nuts and milk. It contains no artificial coatings, colourings, binders or release agents, making it suitable for those with sensitivities. The product is supplied in gelatine capsules for easy consumption.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePotential Side Effects and Precautions\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFolic acid is generally safe at recommended doses. However, high doses can mask vitamin B12 deficiency, which may lead to neurological damage if left untreated. If you have concerns about your B12 levels, speak to your doctor before taking high-dose folic acid. Individuals with a history of certain cancers should also seek medical advice before supplementation. Always read the label and follow directions for use.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch3\u003eHow much folic acid should I take during pregnancy?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe UK RNI for pregnancy is 300 mcg, but many health care professionals recommend 400–800 mcg daily. This supplement provides 1,000 mcg, so please consult your midwife or GP for personalised guidance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eCan folic acid help lower homocysteine levels?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eFolic acid contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. It is not intended to treat or prevent heart disease.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat is the difference between folic acid and folate?\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eFolate is the natural form found in foods, while folic acid is the synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods. Both are converted to the active form in the body.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFood supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat,  or prevent any disease.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dr Clark Store","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46715752874145,"sku":null,"price":30.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0740\/0043\/3313\/files\/61N0ccjXR8L._AC_SL1000_50533d3e-5bb5-471e-9f17-7eb92a58246e.jpg?v=1784396152","url":"https:\/\/ukvitalityvitamins.co.uk\/products\/dr-clark-folic-acid-supplement-1mg-100-capsules-b004spcbo6","provider":"UkVitalityVitamins","version":"1.0","type":"link"}