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Vitamin

Folate

Folate is vitamin B9, a water-soluble B vitamin found in leafy greens, legumes and liver. The body needs it to make DNA and new cells.

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What counts toward the upper limit?

EFSA’s adult upper limit is 1,000 µg daily from folic acid and authorized 5-MTHF salts in supplements and fortified foods combined. It includes pregnancy and breastfeeding but excludes naturally occurring food folate; it is a ceiling, not a target. 1

Why does vitamin B12 matter?

High folic acid intake can correct the anemia of B12 deficiency while neurological problems progress. This concern underlies EFSA’s limit; it does not mean routine preventive doses have been shown to conceal B12 deficiency. 1

When does the medicine change the answer?

Folate can interfere with methotrexate used for cancer, yet may reduce digestive side effects of low-dose methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis. The prescribing clinician should guide the combination. 2

Other interactions to discuss

Antiseizure medicines can lower folate, and folate supplements can lower levels of these medicines. Sulfasalazine can impair folate absorption. 3

For information, not individual medical advice. Ingredient studies do not establish the effectiveness of these products.

Sources

  2. Folate: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
  3. Folate: Fact Sheet for Consumers NIH Office of Dietary Supplements