Neural Tube Defects Prevention: How L-Methylfolate Outperforms Folic Acid?
If you are planning to have a baby, it is important to note that the road ahead is not an easy one. Right from taking a proper diet to nutritional supplements, there are a lot of advises that you are asked to follow in this journey. For example, doctors may suggest you to take folic acid tablets in the initial stages of pregnancy to support the development of baby’s brain and spinal cord. This is important because there are risks of neural tube defects in the first 3-4 weeks of pregnancy.
According to a study, the incidence of neural tube defects (NTDs) in India is approximately 4.5 per 1000 births. So, it is essential to intake a suggested dose of folic acid tablets during pregnancy.
Now, when it comes to choosing the right folic acid pregnancy tablets, there are usual folic acid tablets and the ones with L-Methylfolate. But does their effectiveness and mechanisms differ? Let us find out below!
Major Difference Between Folic Acid and L-Methylfolate
| L-Methylfolate | Folic Acid |
| Biologically active form — it does not need conversion in the body | Synthetic, inactive form - must be converted into active form, L-Methylfolate, before the body can use it |
| Beneficial for women with genetic variations like MTHFR mutations, who have reduced ability to convert folic acid into active folate | May be effective for preventing neural tube defects |
How L-Methylfolate Works?
L-Methylfolate bypasses the need for enzymatic conversion, and it is immediately available for the cellular metabolism. Thus, there is sufficient folate to support neural tube closure and overall foetal development. Additionally, L-Methylfolate directly participates in the methylation cycle that influences
- DNA synthesis and repair
- Neurotransmitter production (important for brain and nervous system development)
- Homocysteine regulation, which affects cardiovascular and neural health
Thus, the L-Methylfolate is not only effective, but it may outperform folic acid. Let us understand the reasons behind it.
Enhanced Bioavailability
It is the only form of folate that can do away with the placental barrier and the blood-brain barrier efficiently, hence, both the mother and foetus receive optimal levels of active folate, supporting the baby’s development and the mother’s health.
Consistent Blood Folate Levels
It helps with a faster and more stable increase in blood folate concentrations, especially in individuals with MTHFR polymorphisms, who have a reduced ability to convert folic acid into its active form. This ensures that both mother’s and baby’s folate needs are adequately met throughout pregnancy.
Reduced Homocysteine Levels
L-Methylfolate lowers homocysteine levels more consistently than folic acid. Elevated homocysteine is associated with cardiovascular risk and adverse pregnancy outcomes, so maintaining optimal levels supports both maternal and fetal health.
Improved Pregnancy Outcomes
According to certain studies, L-Methylfolate-based prenatal supplements have higher protection rates against neural tube defects and other forms of folate-related developmental disorders compared with standard folic acid.
Limitations of Folic Acid Tablets
While folic acid tablets may help expectant mothers to support their pregnancy and the well-being of their child, they have a few limitations. Let us analyse them here:-
- There is dependence on conversion, and excessive folic acid intake can lead to the accumulation of unmetabolized folic acid in the bloodstream. This may interfere with immune function and mask vitamin B12 deficiency.
- High doses of folic acid tablets may speed up the progression of existing, undiagnosed cancers (especially colorectal cancer) and increase the risk of insulin resistance, obesity in children, and slower neurodevelopment in offspring.
- Other than the above, high doses of folic acid tablets may also lead to nausea, bloating, gas, irritability, trouble sleeping, and may also result in allergic reactions. This is the reason why L-Methylfolate is a safer and more effective alternative.
Conclusion
As a mom-to-be, you are eagerly awaiting to welcome of your bundle of joy. It is equally important to follow all the essential recommendations provided by your doctor. When choosing a nutritional supplement, you must look for a prenatal vitamin with L-Methylfolate, as it is more efficient in preventing neural tube defects and promoting lifelong wellness.
Have you been looking for a comprehensive pregnancy nutritional supplement? You must opt for Trimacare, it is an advanced nutritional supplement that includes a sufficient amount of L-Methylfolate. So, it may be helpful for preventing neural tube defects, and may help support healthy baby development and overall mother's wellness. Visit our website to learn more about the product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, L-Methylfolate can be generally consumed as part of a treatment plan or supplementation regimen. However, it is important to consult with your doctor, and you must follow the dosage and duration advised by your healthcare provider.
2. For how long must you take L-Methylfolate before pregnancy?
Generally, it is recommended to take L-Methylfolate for 3 months before conception. And, you must continue taking it for at least the first 3 months of pregnancy. This would help to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs) in your baby. But consultation with your doctor is a must before you start taking any supplement.
3. How much L-Methylfolate is needed for trying to conceive?
As per the recommended daily amount, you can take 400 micrograms (mcg). And, if you are a woman who is planning pregnancy or could become pregnant, the recommended daily amount may consume somewhere between 400 and 1,0800 mcg of folate per day. L-Methylfolate, the active form of folate, can be taken within this range to support neural tube closure and healthy baby development.
4. Does L-Methylfolate work immediately?
When you start taking L-Methylfolate and go on from a lower dose to a higher dose, it may take several weeks for someone to notice any beneficial effects. But you must not stop taking it and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. L-Methylfolate begins working in the body as soon as it is absorbed, but it may take several weeks of consistent supplementation to achieve optimal blood folate levels and see measurable benefits, such as improved folate status or support for pregnancy outcomes.
5. Are folic acid and L-Methylfolate good for egg quality?
Folic acid offers several benefits due to its antioxidant properties. There are various benefits of folic acid in its antioxidant capacity. For example, it may help with improving egg quality, improving the health of the sperm, and regulating ovulation cycles. As far as L-Methylfolate is concerned, it may enhance levels of L-glutathione (GSH), a sulphur-containing amino acid chain found in every cell. GSH helps protect eggs from oxidative stress, which can contribute to healthier egg development.
6. Which is better for pregnancy, L-Methylfolate or folic acid?
A lot of people are often confused between choosing L-Methylfolate or folic acid during their pregnancy journey. According to the research, it may be prescribed to go for Research suggests that prenatal vitamins containing L-Methylfolate may be preferred over instead of folic acid, especially for women with a family history of NTDs or preterm births.
Pallavi Aggarwal
A Certified Nutritionist with a rich healthcare background in health journalism, the author has immense experience in curating reader-friendly, engaging, and informative healthcare blogs to empower readers to make informed pregnancy-related decisions.
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