Why not all prenatals are created equal.
We all know that good nutrition is essential for a healthy pregnancy. But did you know that the weeks before and at the start of your pregnancy are some of the most crucial? That’s why it’s essential to start taking prenatal vitamins well before you conceive. Of all the dietary supplements, folate is arguably the most important. However, not all folate supplements are created equal. In this post, we’ll explore why methylated folate is the best type of folate to take for maximum benefit in the lead-up to conceiving and throughout your pregnancy. Investing in the best form of folate to take during your preparation for conception makes such a huge impact in your health and baby’s health!
The Importance of Methylated Folate: A Key Factor for Preconception and Pregnancy.
- When preparing for conception and maintaining a healthy pregnancy, one vitamin stands out above the rest: methylated folate. Experts recommend taking this crucial vitamin for 3-6 months before trying to conceive and continuing throughout pregnancy.
- Not all folate is created equal. Many people can only absorb folate if it is in its methylated form. This means that folic acid, a synthetic vitamin, may not be as effective as “methylated folate,” which occurs naturally.
- By prioritizing the correct form of folate, you can optimize your chances of conception and promote the well-being of both mother and baby throughout the pregnancy.
Here’s Why.
One in three women has a gene variant that impacts how they convert folate, which makes folic acid fortification less ideal.
This variation means some women require a more bioavailable form of folate, such as methylated folate, that they can more readily use to support their baby’s growth and development. Without this bioavailable form, it’s difficult for the body to convert folic acid into the active form of the vitamin that provides its many benefits.
Methylated folate is the active folate that your body can use immediately and efficiently. It helps promote healthy brain and spinal cord development and supports your baby’s growth and development.
Methylated folate is, therefore, the recommended type of folate to take for maximum benefit if you’re trying to conceive.
Discovering the MTHFR Gene: Understanding its Significance in Folate Processing.
- The MTHFR gene, short for Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, plays a crucial role in instructing your body to produce the MTHFR enzyme, which aids in processing folate. Inherited genetically from both parents, the combination of genes determines your specific variant.
- Why is this important, you ask? Well, a specific gene variant, MTHFR C677T (and sometimes, its accomplice A1298C), can disrupt the conversion of the MTHFR enzyme and consequently affect how the body processes folate.
- But just how common is this MTHFR gene variant? Around 1 in 3 women are found to have this specific gene variant. However, studies suggest that the prevalence of this variant differs among various racial groups. For instance, research shows that up to 70% of Caucasian Americans may possess this variant, while only 30% of African Americans offer the same.
So, What Are The Key Takeaways? Investing in the Best Prenatal Vitamin | Garnet Moon Fertility Center.
First, it’s crucial to note that not all folate supplements are the same. While both folic acid and methylated folate are B9 vitamins, your body can process methylated folate more efficiently, making it a superior choice for your health and your baby’s development.
Secondly, it’s crucial to understand that one in three women has a gene variant that impacts how they convert folate. This means that for many women, methylated folate is the better option.
Lastly, it’s crucial to understand that investing in the best prenatal vitamin with methylated folate is a proactive step towards your baby’s healthy growth and development. To maximize its benefits, it’s recommended to start taking a supplement with methylated folate at least 6 months before trying to conceive and continue throughout pregnancy.
Methylated folate is the active, bioavailable form that your body can use immediately and efficiently. It’s not just about promoting healthy brain and spinal cord development, it’s about supporting the growth and development of your baby and reducing the risk of miscarriage.
So, whether you’re trying to conceive or are already pregnant, choosing a high-quality prenatal vitamin with methylated folate will give your baby the best start. Always talk with your licensed health provider if you have questions on supplements relating to your health or medical conditions.
Where Can I Find a High Quality Prenatal?
One of my favorite prenatal supplements with methylated folate B9 vitamin is from Fairhaven Health. FH Pro for Women is not only a prenatal but also increases egg quality for a healthier pregnancy from the very start to reduce miscarriage. (FH Pro is not recommended for women who are currently pregnant). Investing in the Best Prenatal Vitamin | Garnet Moon Fertility Center.
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Want to learn more? Are you in the Denver or Colorado area? I offer consultations in Denver or in Parker, CO at Rocky Mountain Fertility Center or Virtually. You can book a consultation to learn how I can assist with fertility, hormones, and reproductive health. ABORM certified acupuncture in Denver.