If you've been wondering about the difference between L-methylfolate and folate, you're in the right place! We're about to explain what makes these two nutrients different, and why you should choose L-methylfolate over folate.

As you may already know, there's a lot of conflicting information out there aboutfolate,  L-Methylfolate and Folic Acid. Although both are techinically known as Vitamin B9, they are chemically very different. 

L-Methylfolate is often considered the gold standard of folate supplementation due to its high bioavailability. This means that it's readily absorbed and utilized by your body without additional conversion. This unique property makes L-Methylfolate an invaluable asset for individuals seeking optimal mental and physical health outcomes. As an active form of folate, it is quite superior to its counterparts. 

Folic acid and L-Methylfolate are not identical. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, used in fortified foods and dietary supplements. Folic acid is not biologically active, so it has to be converted into dihydrofolate in the liver using an enzyme called dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). DHF is then converted into tetrahydrofolate (THF), which is THEN converted into 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate and finally to 5-methylenetetrahydrofolate (or L-methylfolate for short - the active form of folate) by serine hydroxymethyltransferase.

This conversion process involves several steps and relies on a properly functioning enzyme known as methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). 

On the other hand, L-Methylfolate is the bioavailable form of folate that bypasses this complex process because it's already in an active state that your body can immediately use.

L-Methylfolate is particularly important for individuals with genetic variations affecting the MTHFR enzyme who may struggle to convert folic acid efficiently. Healthcare professionals often recommend L-Methylfolate 15 mg over folic acid to support mood regulation, cardiovascular health, and nerve function during pregnancy to treat or prevent congenital disabilities related to folate deficiency.

Choosing between folic acid and methylfolate depends on your body's needs and ability to process these nutrients. Methylfolate is the active form of folate that your body can immediately use without any conversion, making it an excellent option for those with genetic mutations like MTHFR, which affects folate metabolism.

This bioavailable form crosses the blood-brain barrier more effectively, supporting mood regulation and cognitive function. 

Folic acid, however, must undergo the complex conversion process we explained above. 

People looking for optimal absorption  often turn to L-methyl folate supplements such as Methyl Life's  L Methylfolate 15 mg . This best-selling product provides a high dose of methylfolate to meet daily nutritional requirements.

Those who require nutritional support for mental wellbeing or in managing homocysteine levels might find methylfolate particularly beneficial due to its direct involvement in metabolic pathways related to these areas.

Next, let's explain why you might choose L-methylfolate over standard folates available on the market.

L-Methylfolate is a game-changer for those with MTHFR gene mutations who have trouble converting folate into its usable form. This potent form of folate passes through the blood-brain barrier, directing supporting cognitive functions and overall brain health.

Methylfolate is required for producing serotonin and dopamine, which are vital neurotransmitters involved in healthy mood and nervous system maintenance. Those with depression and other mood-related disorders are often found to be low in methylfolate.

Methylfolate is especially crucial for pregnant women as it plays a key role in fetal development without the risks associated with folic acid. 

Methy-Life has created both a B-Complex + L-Methylfolate 15 mg tablet so that you can easily integrate this essential nutrient into your daily regimen, supporting energy levels, red blood cell formation, and healthy immune function.