SuppScoutCompare smarter. Supplement better.
Vitamin

Folate

Last reviewed September 28, 20261 sources
In short

Folate is a B vitamin needed to make DNA and for cell division. Supplements contain either folic acid or 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). Labels list mcg DFE (dietary folate equivalents).

Research in progress. This ingredient page doesn’t yet meet SuppScout’s bar for a complete reference (sourced evidence summary, considerations and sufficient detail), so search engines are asked not to index it. The information shown is sourced where cited.

Quick facts

Adult RDA
400 mcg DFE/day; 600 mcg DFE in pregnancy[1]
Upper limit
1,000 mcg/day from folic acid in supplements and fortified foods[1]

Common folate supplement forms

  • Folic acid
  • L-methylfolate (5-MTHF)

Detailed form pages for Folate are being researched.

What researchers have studied it for

Neural tube defects

Consistent evidence

Adequate folic acid before and during early pregnancy reduces the risk of neural tube defects; public health agencies recommend folic acid for people who could become pregnant.[1]

Evidence labels summarize the overall body of published research for each topic; they are not a recommendation and do not mean a supplement is appropriate for you. Published research

Typical amounts in supplements

Prenatal and single-ingredient products commonly provide 400–800 mcg folic acid (680–1,360 mcg DFE).

[1]

These describe what supplements commonly contain and published reference values — not a recommendation for you.

Food sources

  • Leafy greens
  • Beans and peas
  • Fortified grains

Potential considerations

  • High folic acid intake can mask vitamin B12 deficiency.

Products containing folate

No products listed yet

SuppScout hasn’t added folate products yet.

Sources & references

  1. Folate: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. ods.od.nih.govGovernment

SuppScout links to primary and authoritative sources wherever possible. See our editorial policy for how sources are selected and how corrections are handled.

This page is educational and is not medical advice. Talk to a healthcare professional before starting a supplement, especially if you have a medical condition, take medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Medical disclaimer.