Women enjoying life, folic acid vitamin b9 hero photo

Ingredient Repository · Ingredient

Ingredient

Folate for pregnancy and healthy cells, delivered by live probiotics.

An essential B vitamin that builds healthy red blood cells, supports DNA creation, and protects baby spine development.

What it is

Vitamin B9, commonly known as folate or folic acid, is a water-soluble B vitamin that your body needs every day. It plays a master role in creating DNA, forming new cells, and building healthy red blood cells. It is especially vital during pregnancy, as it helps a developing baby's brain and spinal cord form properly.

Also known as: Folate, L-Methylfolate, Methylfolate, 5-MTHF

Key benefits

  • Supports rapid cell growth and DNA creation during pregnancy and daily tissue repair.
  • Helps produce healthy red blood cells so your body can deliver oxygen efficiently and avoid tiredness.
  • Keeps blood vessels and heart tissue healthy by supporting normal amino acid levels.
  • Lowers the risk of birth defects involving the spine and brain in early pregnancy.

Amplified by probiotics

Your gut absorbs folate best when the gut environment is slightly acidic. Probiotics use a protective micro-shield to travel safely through stomach acid into your gut. Once there, certain friendly bacteria actually produce natural folate themselves while creating a healthy gut environment that helps your body absorb more folate from food and supplements.

Typical dose

400–800 µg/day

The evidence

Evidence: strong

Global medical research confirms that taking folic acid around pregnancy significantly lowers the risk of brain and spinal birth defects while supporting healthy red blood cells (Crider et al. 2012, Am J Clin Nutr). Reviews also show that active folate forms like L-methylfolate are absorbed quickly and easily by the body (Scaglione & Panzavolta 2014, Xenobiotica).

  1. Crider KS, et al. Folate and DNA methylation: a review of molecular mechanisms and the evidence for folate's role. Am J Clin Nutr. 2012;95(1):261S-272S. PubMed ↗
  2. Scaglione F, Panzavolta G. Folate, folic acid and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate options for nutrient deficiency. Xenobiotica. 2014;44(5):480-488. PubMed ↗

Safety & who should check first

Folic acid is essential for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Keep synthetic folic acid intake under 1,000 µg per day unless prescribed by your doctor, as very high amounts can hide a vitamin B12 deficiency. Speak to your doctor if you have health concerns.