Are You Getting the Right Folic Acid?
March 20, 2013
Written in partnership with Prenate®
Folate is a B vitamin found in many foods, including leafy green vegetables, dried beans and peas, and citrus fruits and juices and is available in a common, synthetic version called folic acid. Folic Acid is generally available as an additive to certain foods, through dietary supplements, and is included in the majority of prenatal vitamins. All woman of childbearing age are encouraged to take folic acid as it reduces the risk of birth defects in your baby’s brain and spinal cord. The standard recommended dose is 400 micrograms per day but if you are trying to get pregnant, your OB-GYN or fertility doctor may increase that amount to 1 milligram (mg), available only by prescription.1
While many women assume they get enough folic acid from their diet, the following can cause folate deficiency:
- Celiac disease
- Crohn’s disease
- Diets low in fresh fruits and vegetables
- Low-carb and gluten-free diets
- Certain medications, such as those that prevent seizures
- Alcohol
In addition, up to 53 percent of women are unable to convert folic acid into active folate. But Quatrefolic®, a new generation of folate that is structurally equivalent to the active form of folic acid, does not need further metabolizing before it can penetrate.2
The benefits of Quatrefolic® include:
- When included in Prenate® products, you get the recommended daily dosage of 1 mg of folic acid
- Penetration of cells to aid in fetal development without the necessity of further metabolization
- Fights folate deficiency
- Safe and effective for women who are trying to conceive naturally or with fertility treatment, and woman who are pregnant
The Prenate® Family of prenatal vitamins, developed by Avion Pharmaceuticals, all contain Quatrefolic®.
