11/13/2025
🧬 Folate vs. Folic Acid: What’s the Difference?
Let’s clear up a common misconception when it comes to folate and folic acid. While many people believe they’re interchangeable, they’re actually quite different — and that difference matters for your health.
✨ Folic Acid ≠ Folate
Yes, folic acid is the form that’s most commonly found in fortified foods (like cereals, bread, and certain processed snacks) and even in prescription medications. However, folic acid is not the ideal form of folate your body needs. In fact, folic acid has to go through a complex process to be converted into its active form, methylfolate (L-5-MTHF). This conversion is inefficient for many people due to common genetic mutations like the MTHFR gene variant, leaving them unable to properly process folic acid into the usable folate their body needs.
🔍 Why Folate is Better
Unlike folic acid, folate — specifically the methylated form like L-5-MTHF — is naturally bioavailable and easily utilized by the body. Choosing a supplement with the active form of folate ensures your body can properly absorb and use it for crucial processes like DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and supporting neurological health.
⚠️ What’s in Your Food Matters
While it may seem convenient that so many foods are fortified with folic acid, it’s not necessarily a good thing. Excess folic acid can build up in the bloodstream, which may have potential negative effects, especially if your body struggles to convert it. That’s why we advocate for whole foods and supplements that use methylated folate instead.
🌿 Choose Smartly for Your Health
At Apothecary & Co, we’re committed to providing high-quality, bioavailable nutrients. Our Active B Complex contains methylated folate to support your energy, neurological health, and overall well-being. Because when it comes to your health, choosing the right form makes all the difference.
Got questions about folate or our supplements? Drop them in the comments or stop by the store!