For fertility, the key difference between methylfolate and folic acid is that methylfolate is the active, readily usable form of vitamin B9, while folic acid is a synthetic version that some people have trouble converting to its usable form. For people with a combination of some common genetic mutations, taking methylfolate can be a more effective way to ensure proper folate levels for reproductive health.
Methylfolate vs. Folic Acid
| Feature | Methylfolate | Folic Acid |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Bioactive, natural form of vitamin B9 found in leafy greens, legumes, and eggs. | Synthetic, inactive form of vitamin B9 used in fortified foods and most supplements. |
| Conversion | Is immediately usable by the body and does not require conversion. | Must be converted by an enzyme (MTHFR) in the body to become active methylfolate. |
| MTHFR gene variant | Bypasses the conversion step, making it a reliable option for those with the MTHFR gene mutation, which can impair the body's ability to process folic acid. | May not be properly processed by people with the MTHFR gene mutation, potentially leading to lower folate absorption and a buildup of unmetabolised folic acid. |
| Bioavailability | Generally considered more bio-available because it is in the active form that the body prefers. | Bioavailability varies among individuals depending on their genetic makeup and enzyme function. |
| Fertility and pregnancy | Can improve fertility and pregnancy outcomes, especially for those with the MTHFR gene mutation. Adequate folate is essential for egg quality and fetal neural tube development. | Has been proven to reduce the risk of neural tube defects and is widely recommended. However, those with the MTHFR gene may not benefit as much due to poor absorption. |
Which is better for fertility?
- For individuals with the MTHFR gene mutation, methylfolate is the more reliable choice. It bypasses the impaired conversion process and ensures that the body receives the folate it needs.
- For most people without the genetic mutation, either form can be effective. Folic acid is still widely recommended by doctors and healthcare organisations in preparing for and during pregnancy, due to its long history of proven results in preventing neural tube defects.
- However, because the MTHFR mutation is very common, some experts advocate for methylfolate as the preferred option for all people trying to conceive. Taking methylfolate removes the guesswork of whether you have the genetic variant or not.
Important considerations
- Cost: Folic acid is often used in prenatal vitamins because it is less expensive than methylfolate.
- Risk of masking B12 deficiency: High doses of folic acid can potentially mask the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause neurological problems if left undiagnosed. Methylfolate does not have this effect.
- Consult a professional: It is always best to discuss your individual needs with a healthcare provider, especially if you have concerns about your genetic profile or have experienced fertility issues or miscarriages.
Learn more from this article by Catherine Chong, a Fertility Dietitian and book a consultation with us here for a fertility assessment.
