Preggy-Mama

Active Folate (5-MTHF) vs Synthetic Folic Acid

Synthetic Folic Acid is man-made Vitamin B9, and needs to be converted into the active form of Folate (5-MTHF) before the body can use it. Active Folate is the only form of Folate that can cross the Brain-Blood-Barrier.  This form of Vitamin B9 can be used by the body immediately.

Some people are “Poor Folic Acid Metabolisers”. Poor Folic Acid Metabolisers have a polymorphism (gene mutation) of the enzyme Methylene Tetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR). Mutations in the MTHFR Gene prohibits a person from being able to adequately metabolise Synthetic Folic Acid resulting in a low Folate Status. In these cases, it is essential that these people take Folate (5-MTHF) as they cannot metabolise (use) Synthetic Folic Acid.

Folate is essential during Pregnancy as it helps prevent Neural Tube Defects such as Spina Bifida and Anencephaly. The highest risk for Neural Tube Defects occurs between the 21st and 28th day after conception when the embryonic neural tube closes (becomes brain and spinal cord). This is in the first month of pregnancy, often before a woman even knows that she is pregnant. Therefore, one should start supplementing with Folate at least 2 to 3 months prior to falling pregnant as per the World Health Organisation’s Guidelines.

Women with a history of previous miscarriages are encouraged to take higher doses of Folate prior to falling pregnant again, as well as taking additional Folate over and above their Pregnancy Supplement during their first Trimester. Stellar Activ-Folate can be added to Preggy-Mama in these instances. 

50% of women who develop Post-partum Depression begin experiencing symptoms during their Pregnancy. It is important to recognise the symptoms of the “Baby Blues” so that it can be treated. Low Folate status (Folate deficiency) has been linked to Depression. Stellar Activ-Folate is recommended to be taken as an adjunct to other Medications for Post-partum Depression.