This week I wanted to share some of what I have learned about folate and folic acid. If you are trying to conceive or pregnant chances are you have been taking a prenatal vitamin for some time now. Does that vitamin have folate (methylfolate) or folic acid?
Does it make a difference? I’ll let you be the one to decide for yourself, by all means look this up and do your own research. Here is a hint though, one is natural and the other is synthetic…..
Folate vs Folic Acid
Your care provider probably recommended a prenatal with a good amount of folic acid in it to support the healthy growth of your baby but there is a problem with that.
Folate is a natural form of vitamin B9 that is found in leafy greens, nuts, meats, and some fortified foods. It is water soluble and easily absorbed and utilized by the body.
On the other hand, folic acid is the synthetic, man made form of vitamin B9, although it absorbs well in the body, it is not well utilized by the body because it needs to be converted before it is useful. For the most part it will block your cells from utilizing the natural folate you are consuming through real foods because the folic acid hasn’t been converted before being transferred to your cells. On top of this 35-40% of Americans have difficulty converting folic acid.
There are natural ways that you can get folate and have all the other vitamin support you need without taking supplements that are highly processed and may be causing more harm than good. Eating healthy and clean foods, staying away from processed foods, and get this, you can even get folate from lemon peels! Throw some in your next smoothie and say bye bye to your folic acid laden prenatal vitamin.
Oh, by the way, if this has spoken to you and you want more encouraging, uplifting, and supportive information, I have created a community I think you might like! You will find more great tips, empowering birth stories, and the support of a community that will come alongside you through your journey! Click here to join now.
