The Folic Acid Confusion
The difference between Folic Acid and Folate.
There are cases when taking a synthetic supplement can yield more benefit than a natural one. For example, Acetyl-L-Carnitine is a synthesised version of L-Carnitine, which is a derivative of the amino acids lysine and methionine. Acetyl-L-Carnitine is more bioavailable than L-Carnitine because it easily crosses the blood-brain barrier and delivers L-Carnitine across cell membranes (which it would not be able to cross on its own).
The opposite is true for Folic Acid! Synthetic Folic Acid should be avoided. The natural form of Folic Acid is Folate.
So how do you know which is which?
Go and reach for you vitamin jar and see what is says. If it says Folic Acid, don't throw it away just yet. Check the more detailed ingredients list. Often the manufacture labels Folic Acid because it is more recognised. By checking the ingredients, you will see what form of Folic Acid is present. If it says Folate, relax and place the jar back on the shelf. If it still says Folic Acid, bin it and find another brand.
You're now thinking; Wait a dam minute mister! I need more information before I throw out my pricey vits!
Dr. Ben Lynch explains it a lot better than I ever could, below is a link.
https://www.drbenlynch.com/folic-acid-side-effects/
