Customer question:
Which type or form of folic acid is best? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Regarding supplying the body with available nutrients, dietary folate is the form found in whole foods – it is superior to synthetic folic acid found in supplements and processed foods. It is more easily accessible to the body and does not present the same potential accumulation risks.
When a person consumes folic acid over their ability to process it, it can overload the liver at once and potentially end up in the bloodstream. Unmetabolized folic acid in the bloodstream is associated with severe health risks.
Folate is the standard form of vitamin B9 found in many whole foods, including leafy greens, beans, eggs, citrus fruits, avocados, and beef liver. On the other hand, folic acid is the synthesized version of vitamin B9 that is added to processed foods and the standard version used in supplements.
For many, it is possible to meet the body's folate needs through a healthy and varied diet. However, certain dietary restrictions or medical conditions may increase the risk of folate deficiency and related symptoms.
Interesting reading: Best folic acid forum
