Folate (L-Methylfolate)
The active form of folate that works even if you have the common genetic variation that makes regular folic acid harder to use. Important for the repair processes your liver depends on.
Why we use L-methylfolate instead of folic acid
Regular folic acid (used in most supplements and fortified foods) needs to be converted by your body into L-methylfolate (L-5-MTHF) before it can be used. This conversion requires an enzyme called MTHFR.
A significant percentage of the Indian population has a common genetic variation in the MTHFR gene that makes this conversion less efficient. If you have this variation, regular folic acid may not work well for you — even if your supplement label says you're getting enough.
We skip this problem entirely by using L-methylfolate (the already-converted form). Whether you have the MTHFR variation or not, your body can use L-methylfolate directly.
Folate is critical for DNA repair and the methylation cycle — both of which are essential for liver cell regeneration. Alcohol also significantly impairs folate absorption, which is why Shield has the higher dose.
Best timing for maximum benefit
Foods that help or hinder absorption
Green leafy vegetables, lentils (dal), and fortified cereals are food sources of folate — but these provide folic acid, not the active form.
Medicines to discuss with your doctor
If you take any of these medicines, talk to your doctor first
What you might experience
What you might experience
L-methylfolate at 200–400mcg daily has essentially no side effects. Unlike high-dose folic acid, L-methylfolate does not mask B12 deficiency symptoms (a known concern with regular folic acid).
Duration of use
Indefinite. Folate is a water-soluble vitamin safe for long-term daily use.
Situations where this ingredient is not appropriate
On methotrexate: Do not take folate supplements without your oncologist's or rheumatologist's guidance. Folate can interfere with methotrexate's action.
Undiagnosed B12 deficiency: One advantage of L-methylfolate over folic acid: it does not mask the symptoms of B12 deficiency, which folic acid can do. Still, make sure your B12 status is checked.
What clinical studies suggest
Published clinical data
Presented for informational purposes. Individual results may differ. These studies do not constitute product claims.
