5-MTHF folate: what is it and what are its benefits?
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Leesduur: 4 min
Folate, also known as vitamin B11, is an important building block for your health, especially when it comes to cell division, blood formation and support during pregnancy.
But did you know that not all forms of folate are the same? In this article, I'll explain why 5-MTHF, the active form of folate, is so special and why it can be a smart choice for your supplement.
5-MTHF is the direct-acting, natural form of folate that the body can use directly without energy-consuming conversion steps, unlike synthetic folic acid.
This active form of folate offers a solution for MTHFR gene mutations, methotrexate use and during pregnancy, because it unhindered bypasses absorption and use limitations caused by enzymes.
Folate plays a crucial role in cell division, blood and tissue formation, immune function, amino acid synthesis and the reduction of fatigue, thus supporting overall health and development.
Table of contents
What is folate? What is 5-MTHF? These are the unique benefits of 5-MTHF : 1. Easily absorbed 2. Suitable for people with metabolism problems How does 5-MTHF folate work? Buy 5-MTHF folate: Discover our folate supplements 1. Vitamin B complex 2. Premium Multivitamin 3. B12 Folate Melting Tablets Joint Premium
What is folate?
Folate is the natural form of vitamin B11 found in foods.
Good to know : Folate is not the same as folic acid. Folic acid is the synthetic form often used in supplements and fortified foods. Folate, on the other hand, occurs naturally in our food and can also be used in supplements.
What is 5-MTHF?
5-MTHF, or 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, is the active form of folate, its natural counterpart. Its "directly active" status means your body can use it immediately, without the need for a complex conversion process.
And that's good, because that conversion requires extra energy from your body. The beauty of 5-MTHF is that it's immediately ready for use.
Now, that's a plus for anyone who needs extra folate, but there are certain situations where it's particularly helpful, such as:
- For people with an MTHFR gene mutation , who may have difficulty converting folic acid
- When using methotrexate (MTX) , a commonly used drug for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, which has the side effect of inhibiting the conversion of folate
- During pregnancy , when folate needs are higher
- In some chronic conditions where metabolism may be affected
These are the unique benefits of 5-MTHF
As I mentioned earlier in this article, the active form of folate (5-MTHF) is a smart choice because it skips the conversion steps and can therefore be used more quickly by your body .
Curious how this works exactly? Here's how it works:
1. Easily absorbed
That 5-MTHF is a well-absorbable form for those looking for a readily available form of folate has also been shown by scientific research.
In more than 13 studies with over 2600 participants it was confirmed that 5-MTHF increases blood folate levels more easily than folic acid. (1)
2. Suitable for people with conversion problems
The fact that 5-MTHF is suitable for people with conversion problems is also supported by several studies.
For example, a large umbrella study looked at 15 studies with a total of 1,984 participants and confirmed that 5-MTHF is better absorbed in people with an MTHFR mutation. (2)
This works because it supports folate metabolism without relying on the MTHFR enzyme.
How does 5-MTHF folate work?
Folate, both from food and supplements (such as 5-MTHF), is a true multitasker in your body.
These are the main functions of folate:
- It helps make red and white blood cells
- It has a positive effect on the immune system
- It plays a role in the growth and development of tissues
- It contributes to the growth of your child during pregnancy
- It contributes to a good mental balance
- It helps to reduce tiredness and fatigue
- And it contributes to normal production of amino acids, such as methionine
Buy 5-MTHF folate: Discover our folate supplements
Looking for extra folate? At Natuurlijk Presteren, you'll find three high-quality supplements containing 5-MTHF, the active form of folate your body can use immediately.
Whether you want a complete B vitamin boost or targeted support, we have a suitable option for you.
1. Vitamin B complex
Want all your B vitamins in one? Our B-complex contains 500 mcg of 5-MTHF , the active form of folate, along with other B vitamins in carefully selected doses.
2. Premium Multi Vitamin
Prefer a safe all-in-one solution? Our Premium Multi Vitamin offers a 32-in-1 formula with 400 mcg of 5-MTHF and other high-quality ingredients.
Ideal for long-term support of your daily health.
3. B12 Melting tablets with folate
Our B12 melt tablets are perfect for those who absorb vitamins better through the oral mucosa. They contain:
- 1000 mcg vitamin B12 (in the most absorbable forms methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin)
- 400 mcg 5-MTHF
- 2.8 mcg vitamin B6 (as active form pyridoxal-5-phosphate)
Caution : Always consult your doctor before using 5-MTHF, especially if you are pregnant or taking medication.
Ebrina van der Bijl
Ebrina is a nutritionist with a deep commitment to healthy eating and a sustainable lifestyle, based in beautiful Portugal. Her passion for natural and organic products is at the heart of her work. With a background in Nutrition & Dietetics and experience in product development and writing, she translates complex scientific information into practical advice for a balanced lifestyle.
Sources used
- De Lourdes Samaniego-Vaesken, M., Morais-Moreno, C., Carretero-Krug, A., Puga, A.M., Montero-Bravo, A.M., Partearroyo, T., & Gregorio, V. (2024). Supplementation with Folic Acid or 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate and Prevention of Neural Tube Defects: An Evidence-Based Narrative Review. Nutrients, 16(18), 3154. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16183154
- Tsang, B. L., Devine, O. J., Cordero, A. M., Marchetta, C. M., Mulinare, J., Mersereau, P., Guo, J., Qi, Y. P., Berry, R. J., Rosenthal, J., Crider, K. S., & Hamner, H. C. (2015). Assessing the association between the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677C>T polymorphism and blood folate concentrations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of trials and observational studies. American Journal Of Clinical Nutrition, 101(6), 1286–1294. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.114.099994
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