5-MTHF

5-MTHF is the most biologically active form of the water-soluble B vitamin, folate. It is the preferred form of folate supplementation due to an array of conditions that can limit conversion or absorption of folic acid. Along with vitamin B12, folate serves as a donor of methyl groups. The body utilizes methyl groups in many nervous system and metabolic processes, including the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, the synthesis of monoamine neurotransmitters, the production of melatonin, and the synthesis of DNA. Data indicate that supplementing with 5-MTHF increases plasma folate more effectively than folic acid. In addition, sufficient folate is necessary for brain and nervous system functions and for a healthy pregnancy outcome.* 5-MTHF—Preferred Over Folic Acid. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate that is used to fortify foods. It is often found in dietary supplements as well. Despite some research showing that folic acid and 5-MTHF have equivalent bioavailability, 5-M