L-5-MTHF (Quatrefolic®)

What Is L-5-MTHF?

Folate is vitamin B9, and 5-MTHF is the form of it that actually circulates in blood. Every other folate has to be converted into this one first, whether it came from fortified flour or from a bowl of greens. Here the vitamin comes already in that finished form.

How It Works in the Body

Folate's job is moving one-carbon units around, and 5-MTHF is the delivery van. It hands its methyl group to vitamin B12, which passes it along to rebuild methionine. Methionine then becomes SAMe, the body's universal methyl donor for DNA, neurotransmitters and the myelin around nerves. The MTHFR enzyme is what makes 5-MTHF, and common variants in that gene slow the step down.

What It Supports

• Methylation: Supports the methyl-transfer reactions the body runs constantly.
• Red blood cell formation: Plays a role in making new red blood cells.
• Cell division: Is required for the DNA synthesis that happens when cells copy themselves.
• Folate needs in pregnancy: Contributes to the greater folate demand of pregnancy.

Who It May Suit

People who would rather take the methylated folate itself than folic acid. Anyone whose meals are light on leafy greens, legumes and liver, the three richest folate foods. Women planning a pregnancy or already pregnant, whose folate needs run higher than usual.

Good To Know

Glucosamine here is only the salt-forming partner that makes the folate water-soluble, not an added joint ingredient. Talk with your healthcare provider before use, especially if your vitamin B12 status is unknown, because plentiful folate can hide a B12 shortfall on a blood count.