Are you seeking the best folic acid to get pregnant? Let’s demystify its various names and unveil the surprising truth about the optimal form of folic acid.
It’s commonly known that Vitamin B9 plays a crucial role in protecting against fetal neural tube defects. Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9, while folic acid is its synthetic counterpart. Folic acid is widely used in various dietary supplements and fortified foods, particularly for women seeking to conceive.
Surprisingly, did you know that folic acid is inactive in the human body?
The shocking truth is that to truly reap the benefits of this essential nutrient, you need to buy 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (also known as 5-MTHF for short). This is actually the active form of folate, which is crucial to take before trying to get pregnant!
This post is all about the best form of folic acid to get pregnant.
Why You Need 5-MTHF Before Trying to Get Pregnant:
- Essential for Growth and Development: Folate, in its active form of 5-MTHF, plays a fundamental role in growth and development, particularly during embryonic and fetal stages.
- Immediate Availability: Research indicates that up to 25% of individuals may struggle to fully use the standard form of folic acid present in foods and supplements. In such cases, an active variant of folic acid becomes essential to bypass certain biochemical conversions. Unlike folic acid, 5-MTHF does not require conversion in the liver to become active. As a result, it is immediately available for the body to utilize, making it the ideal choice for women during the preconception period and throughout pregnancy.
- Avoiding Health Risks: In cases where the liver’s ability to transform folic acid is compromised due to genetic variants, 5-MTHF supplementation becomes crucial. If you are unsure about your folate status or if your physician has identified a genetic mutation hindering folic acid use, 5-MTHF serves as a safe and effective alternative form of folic acid to get pregnant and ensures your baby receives the necessary nutrients.
- Non-Accumulative Nature: One concern with folic acid supplementation is its tendency to accumulate in the blood in cases of reduced hepatic transformation. This accumulation can have unintended consequences on overall health. 5-MTHF, on the other hand, does not build up in the bloodstream, providing a safer and more efficient way to meet your folate needs.
Recommendations:
When it comes to choosing a reliable and active form of folic acid to get pregnant, Kirkman®️ and Thorne®️ are two brands that stand out for several reasons:
- Doctor Recommended: Their products come highly recommended by medical professionals, which speaks to its quality and efficacy. Trusting a doctor-recommended brand ensures you are making a wise and informed choice for your health.
- High-Quality Ingredients: They are known for their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and adhering to strict manufacturing standards. This ensures that you are getting a premium product that you can trust.