Folic Acid
The Folic Acid form we carry
See how we score it — absorption, bioavailability & formulary tier
Quick Answer
Which form of Folic Acid do we use?
Our formulary carries a single form of Folic Acid. See the details below.
All Forms of Folic Acid
| Form | Tier | Form Score | Dose Range | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Folic Acid | Mapped | 75/100Strong | — | — |
Absorption by Form
What is Folic Acid?
Folic Acid is a Vitamin supplement available in 1 form.
FormulaForge carries a single form of Folic Acid, so there is no form to choose here. Forms on the market do differ in how well they absorb, which is why it is worth checking the form named on any product label.
The Form of Folic Acid We Carry
Folic Acid (Mapped Form) has a bioavailability rating of lower absorption.
What the Research Shows
**Folic acid** (vitamin B9) supplementation has well-established clinical benefits, safety profile, dosing guidelines, and bioavailability characteristics supported by extensive research, including recent studies up to 2023-2024.
Randomised crossover, n=24 healthy adults, EQUIMOLAR single dose (Na-5-MTHF 436 mcg vs folic acid 400 mcg, 0.906 umol each). Plasma 5-MTHF AUC0-8h 126.0+/-33.6 vs 56.0+/-25.3 nmol/L*h (ratio 2.25x); Cmax ratio 3.31x. SINGLE-DOSE PLASMA AUC - not the endpoint this DCR uses. PMID: 33255787
Regulatory synthesis of multiple RCTs: RBC folate 23% higher (95% CI 11-37%) for L-5-MTHF vs folic acid at >=400 mcg/day, chronic dosing. THE BASIS OF THIS DCR. EFSA also treats the calcium and glucosamine salts as bioequivalent per mg of active 5-MTHF, citing an UNPUBLISHED 2010 crossover (n=24) - that salt-parity claim is UNVERIFIED. DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7452
Narrative review. States folic acid and L-5-MTHF are comparable at EQUIMOLAR doses (reads ~1:1). Directional support only - a review, not a ratio source. Mass-corrected this would give ~1.04, which is direction-illegal for S4->S1. PMID: 20608755
How to Choose the Right Form
Multiple forms of Folic Acid are available. Start by comparing form ratings — Preferred Forms reflect the strongest bioavailability evidence, and higher-absorption forms deliver more active compound per dose unit.
The appropriate form depends on your individual goals and your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Consult a qualified professional before selecting a supplement form.
Dosing & Safety
Individual dose requirements vary based on health goals, body weight, and existing nutrient intake. Your healthcare provider can help you determine an appropriate amount of Folic Acid for you.
Side Effects: Consult your healthcare provider regarding tolerability, particularly at higher doses.
These statements are based on structure/function research and have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing a supplement regimen.
The Science
The following studies and findings inform FormulaForge classifications for Folic Acid:
Randomised crossover, n=24 healthy adults, EQUIMOLAR single dose (Na-5-MTHF 436 mcg vs folic acid 400 mcg, 0.906 umol each). Plasma 5-MTHF AUC0-8h 126.0+/-33.6 vs 56.0+/-25.3 nmol/L*h (ratio 2.25x); Cmax ratio 3.31x. SINGLE-DOSE PLASMA AUC - not the endpoint this DCR uses. PMID: 33255787
Regulatory synthesis of multiple RCTs: RBC folate 23% higher (95% CI 11-37%) for L-5-MTHF vs folic acid at >=400 mcg/day, chronic dosing. THE BASIS OF THIS DCR. EFSA also treats the calcium and glucosamine salts as bioequivalent per mg of active 5-MTHF, citing an UNPUBLISHED 2010 crossover (n=24) - that salt-parity claim is UNVERIFIED. DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7452
Narrative review. States folic acid and L-5-MTHF are comparable at EQUIMOLAR doses (reads ~1:1). Directional support only - a review, not a ratio source. Mass-corrected this would give ~1.04, which is direction-illegal for S4->S1. PMID: 20608755
Dosing Guidance
Individual dose requirements for Folic Acid vary based on health goals, body weight, and existing dietary intake. A qualified healthcare provider can help you determine an appropriate amount for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which form of Folic Acid is in our formulary?
How much Folic Acid should I take?
What does Folic Acid support?
Is Folic Acid safe?
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References
- Randomised crossover, n=24 healthy adults, EQUIMOLAR single dose (Na-5-MTHF 436 mcg vs folic acid 400 mcg, 0.906 umol each). Plasma 5-MTHF AUC0-8h 126.0+/-33.6 vs 56.0+/-25.3 nmol/L*h (ratio 2.25x); Cmax ratio 3.31x. SINGLE-DOSE PLASMA AUC - not the endpoint this DCR uses. PubMed DOI
- Regulatory synthesis of multiple RCTs: RBC folate 23% higher (95% CI 11-37%) for L-5-MTHF vs folic acid at >=400 mcg/day, chronic dosing. THE BASIS OF THIS DCR. EFSA also treats the calcium and glucosamine salts as bioequivalent per mg of active 5-MTHF, citing an UNPUBLISHED 2010 crossover (n=24) - that salt-parity claim is UNVERIFIED. DOI
- Narrative review. States folic acid and L-5-MTHF are comparable at EQUIMOLAR doses (reads ~1:1). Directional support only - a review, not a ratio source. Mass-corrected this would give ~1.04, which is direction-illegal for S4->S1. PubMed DOI
FormulaForge formulates and sells supplements containing the ingredients discussed on this page. Our formulary recommendations are based on peer-reviewed bioavailability research. All cited studies are independently verifiable.