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Folate (Vitamin B9)

Folic Acid, L-Methylfolate, L-5-MTHF, Vitamin B9

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Meta Information

ID:folate
Name:Folate (Vitamin B9)
Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

  • Folic Acid
  • L-Methylfolate
  • L-5-MTHF
  • Vitamin B9

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
5
High Cost:
20
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Widely available OTC supplement; methylfolate form is more expensive than folic acid.

Summary

Folate is an essential B-vitamin critical for one-carbon metabolism, which governs DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. Maintaining adequate folate status supports epigenetic stability and helps regulate homocysteine levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. As an intervention, it aims to optimize these fundamental cellular processes that can degrade with age.

Purpose

Supports DNA methylation, synthesis, and repair; reduces homocysteine levels.

Card Summary

Essential B-vitamin for DNA methylation and repair, crucial for maintaining epigenetic stability and cardiovascular health.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:
5.5
Justification:
Crucial for fundamental cellular processes, but supra-physiological dosing lacks strong longevity evidence.

Evidence

Grade:
A
Score:
9
Justification:
Extensive human RCTs and meta-analyses confirm its role in lowering homocysteine.

Safety

Score:
2.5
Justification:
Generally recognized as safe (GRAS); high doses can mask B12 deficiency.

Flags

  • High doses of synthetic folic acid can mask a Vitamin B12 deficiency.
  • Individuals with MTHFR gene variants may have impaired conversion of folic acid to its active form.
  • The L-methylfolate (5-MTHF) form bypasses MTHFR conversion issues and is often preferred.
  • Interacts with methotrexate, certain anti-seizure medications (e.g., phenytoin), and sulfasalazine.

Verdict

Essential for methylation; ensure adequacy, especially if MTHFR variant is present.

Created

2026-04-26T17:36:55.727362Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:
oral
Scope:
  • systemic

Indication

Focus:
healthspan
Description:
Folate is an essential B-vitamin critical for one-carbon metabolism, which governs DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. Maintaining adequate folate status supports epigenetic stability and helps re...

Typical Protocol

  • Daily supplementation ranges from 400 to 1000 mcg, often as L-methylfolate for superior bioavailability.