Why L-Methylfolate from L-5-Methylfolate, Calcium Salt? (Folate / Vitamin B9)

L-Methylfolate. A term worth knowing—especially when discussing the superior forms of Folate (Vitamin B9). But when it comes to bioavailability, one particular benefit can make L-Methylfolate stand out. And it's why this neuro-nutrient has gained so much attention lately, especially among Americans with a genetic MTHFR mutation.

L-Methylfolate vs. Folic Acid: the battle of the B9s

OK, so you probably checked lots of nootropic labels. Most list Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) among their ingredients. It's perhaps the most widely used form. But let's see how L-Methylfolate compares to Folic Acid:

As you can see, L-Methylfolate, specifically from L-5-Methylfolate, Calcium salt, is not your run-of-the-mill Folic Acid. It's the form we prefer for our advanced nootropic precisely because of its unique properties.

Unlike the much more common Folic Acid, L-Methylfolate from L-5-Methylfolate is the biologically active form of Vitamin B9. It's the form our bodies can actually use without conversion.* No pit stops, no detours.

Folic Acid is the inexpensive, ‘synthetic’ form of B9, frequently included in nootropics (and fortified foods).

In fact, Folic Acid is so common that it has become the first line of treatment for Folate deficiency and related health conditions.

Plus, the addition (fortification) of Folic Acid to wheat flour is now mandatory in the United States, Australia, Canada, and several other countries.*¹

However, cost isn't the only factor to consider. There's always a catch. And, in our case, the issue with Folic Acid is its low efficiency and absorption.*

When you consume Folic Acid, it needs to be converted into Dihydrofolate (DHF), Tetrahydrofolate (THF), and eventually L-Methylfolate (5-MTHF) so that your body can use it. Once converted, it can be carried into cells, tissues, and even cross the blood-brain barrier.*^2,3

Why Folic Acid nootropics might not be your best bet.

However, some issues can arise during metabolism for those with an enzyme deficiency, such as an MTHFR mutation.*

MTHFR is a gene that plays a critical role in how our bodies process Folate. A genetic variation in this gene can impact Folate metabolism, and here's the kicker—one out of three people have this mutation. And how can this mutation affect them? Well, their bodies cannot complete the final metabolic step that converts Folic Acid to the active form of L-Methylfolate.*⁴

(!) This can influence how some metabolize Folic Acid nootropics, making them potentially harmful in the long run.*^5,6,7

L-5-Methylfolate can be an alternative for those with an MTHFR mutation.

L-5-Methylfolate bypasses the entire Folic Acid metabolism cycle, providing the body with a ready-to-use Folate that can cross the blood-brain barrier.*

Think of it like receiving a cooked meal instead of all the raw ingredients. An MTHFR mutation is equal to not having the pots and pans to cook with.

So, what's the solution?

HCF® advanced nootropics can be an option for those looking for alternatives to traditional Folate-based nootropics. Our advanced formulas include L-Methylfolate from L-5-Methylfolate (Calcium salt), a potentially better option than the cheaper (and less bioavailable) Folate commonly used in many nootropics. This can make our nootropics particularly beneficial for those who don't get enough Vitamin B9 through their diet or those with an MTHFR mutation (and struggling with optimal nutrient absorption).*

Plus, at HCF®, we go beyond supporting just the head-brain. Our advanced nootropics are designed to benefit your entire head-heart-gut axis, promoting overall well-being.*

It's a small change that could make a big difference in your health, especially if you already struggle with nutrient absorption