Folic acid and folate are two forms of vitamin B9, but they behave differently in your body.
Folate is the natural form found in foods like leafy greens, while folic acid is a synthetic version often added to supplements and fortified foods.
About 40% of people have a genetic variation that makes it difficult for their bodies to convert synthetic folic acid into active folate. This means that even if they consume folic acid, their bodies might not efficiently turn it into the form needed for vital processes. That’s why methylfolate, the already active form of B9, is a better choice for supporting overall health.
Both folic acid and folate need to bind to the same receptors in your body to be processed and used. Think of these receptors as parking spaces. When you consume folic acid, it competes with folate for these limited “parking spaces.” If folic acid takes up too many spots, your body may not be able to process and use folate efficiently.
Another problem with folic acid is that it’s not as easily converted into the active form your body needs. If too much folic acid is present, it can overwhelm the system, leaving folate without enough spaces to bind to. This can lead to unmetabolized folic acid floating around in your bloodstream, which some studies suggest could have potential health risks.
THE SOLUTION
Look for a multivitamin with methylfolate to get the active form of folate your body needs. UNI KEY’s Advanced Daily Multivitamin is a top choice, packed with over 30 essential vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants. It’s iron-free and copper-free, which is great for those needing to limit these minerals. Plus, its unique formulation boosts metabolism and supports weight management, making it a smart addition to your wellness routine.
