Folic Acid Pure

Folic Acid (Pure)

Snapshot

Folic acid is the synthetic form of vitamin B9 used in supplements and food fortification, critical for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and neural tube development.

 

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What is Folic Acid (Pure)?

Folic acid is the fully oxidized, monoglutamate form of vitamin B9. Unlike naturally occurring folates, it requires reduction by dihydrofolate reductase to become biologically active, ultimately forming tetrahydrofolate and 5‑MTHF in the body.

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Where It Comes From

Folic acid is manufactured via chemical synthesis and added to fortified grain products (flour, cereals) as well as offered in standalone supplement tablets, often at 400 µg or higher per dose.

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Key Nutrients & Compounds

Pure folic acid provides 100% of its mass as the monoglutamate molecule. It does not contain the polyglutamate chains found in natural food folates, but delivers a highly stable, cost‑effective source of vitamin B9 when processed and absorbed.

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Health Benefits

Supplementation with folic acid prevents folate‑deficiency anemia and reduces plasma homocysteine levels, supporting cardiovascular health. It is essential during periconception and early pregnancy for neural tube closure, significantly lowering the risk of spina bifida and anencephaly.

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Recommended Dosage

Adults should aim for 400 µg of folic acid daily. Women of childbearing potential are advised to take 400–800 µg daily, beginning at least one month before conception and continuing through the first trimester.

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How to Use It

Folic acid is taken once daily with water, ideally with a meal for consistent routine. It is often included in prenatal multivitamins or as a standalone B‑complex component.

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Who Should Use It?

Women planning pregnancy or in early gestation, individuals with low dietary folate intake, those on medications that impair folate metabolism, and people with elevated homocysteine levels benefit from folic acid supplementation.

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Possible Interactions or Cautions

Excess folic acid intake (above 1,000 µg/day) may mask vitamin B12 deficiency, potentially delaying diagnosis of pernicious anemia. Individuals on anticonvulsants or with cancer risk should consult a healthcare provider.

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Final Thoughts

Folic acid delivers a stable, bioavailable source of vitamin B9 that has proven public health impact in preventing neural tube defects and supporting cardiovascular and hematologic health. When used appropriately, it is a cornerstone of maternal and metabolic wellness.

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Scientific Studies

Crider, K. S., et al. (2011). Folic acid food fortification—its history, effect, concerns, and future directions. Nutrients, 3(3), 370–384. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu3030370

MRC Vitamin Study Research Group. (1991). Prevention of neural tube defects: results of the Medical Research Council Vitamin Study. Lancet, 338(8760), 131–137. https://doi.org/10.1016/0140-6736(91)90133-A

Homocysteine Studies Collaboration. (2002). Homocysteine and risk of ischemic heart disease and stroke: a meta‑analysis. JAMA, 288(16), 2015–2022. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.288.16.2015