Pure Encapsulations – Folate 5,000 – Activated Vitamin B9 (as Metafolin® 5-MTHF) – 60 Capsules

Why Choose Activated Folate?

Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is a water-soluble nutrient essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation. This supplement provides 5,000 mcg of activated folate as Metafolin® (L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate, or 5-MTHF). Unlike synthetic folic acid, this form is the naturally occurring, biologically active version that your body can utilise directly without needing conversion in the liver. For individuals with genetic variations in the MTHFR enzyme, this can be particularly advantageous, as it bypasses a common metabolic bottleneck. This means you get the full benefit without relying on an often-compromised conversion process.

Folic Acid vs. 5-MTHF: What’s the Difference?

Folic acid is the synthetic form of vitamin B9 commonly found in fortified foods and many standard supplements. To become biologically active, folic acid must be converted to 5-MTHF through a series of enzymatic steps, with the final step catalysed by the MTHFR enzyme. However, a significant portion of the population carries genetic variants that reduce MTHFR enzyme activity, impairing this conversion. In contrast, this product supplies 5-MTHF directly, bypassing the need for conversion. This makes it a more reliable option for individuals with methylation challenges. Metafolin® is a patented, highly pure form of calcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate that matches the structure of natural folate found in food.

Health Benefits of Folate

Folate contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism, which is important for cardiovascular health. It also supports normal psychological function and contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Folate has a role in the process of cell division and contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy. Additionally, it plays a part in normal blood formation and the normal function of the immune system. These EFSA-approved health claims underscore the importance of maintaining adequate folate levels. The activated form ensures you get these benefits without relying on a potentially impaired conversion step.

Who Might Benefit from Folate Supplementation?

This product is ideal for individuals who have difficulty converting folic acid into its active form, particularly those with MTHFR gene variants. It is also commonly used by women who are planning pregnancy or are already pregnant, as the demand for folate increases significantly during this time. People with certain medical conditions that affect nutrient absorption, such as inflammatory bowel disease or coeliac disease, may also benefit from a supplemented source of activated folate. Additionally, older adults or those taking medications that interfere with folate metabolism (e.g., methotrexate) may find this form useful. As always, we recommend consulting a health care professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Dosage Recommendations

This supplement provides 5,000 mcg (5 mg) of activated folate per capsule, which is a relatively high-dose—above the general recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 200 mcg for adults in the UK and 400 mcg for pregnant women. The tolerable upper intake level from supplementary folic acid is set at 1,000 mcg per day, but this product uses the active form, which may have different considerations. Because of the high potency, this product is often used under the guidance of a health care professional for specific needs. Do not exceed the recommended dosage unless advised by your doctor.

Quality and Purity

When selecting a folate supplement, look for products that uses well-researched forms like Metafolin® and are manufactured in facilities that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Pure Encapsulations is known for its commitment to purity and quality. Their supplements are made with premium ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers and are tested for potency and purity. They also avoid common allergens, artificial ingredients, and GMOs, making them suitable for individuals with sensitivities. Third-party testing and transparent labelling are additional markers of a reliable product.

Safety and Precautions

Folate is generally well tolerated, but very high doses (such as 5,000 mcg) may cause mild side effects like digestive upset in some people. A critical precaution is that high-dose folic acid can mask a vitamin B12 deficiency, potentially delaying diagnosis of pernicious anaemia. Since this product uses 5-MTHF rather than folic acid, the masking effect may be less pronounced, but it is still important to ensure adequate B12 status. Individuals with a history of seizures should also consult a doctor before taking high-dose folate, as it may interact with certain anticonvulsant medications. Always keep supplements out of reach of children and store them in a cool, dry place.

Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied diet and healthy lifestyle.