Calcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF-Ca; CAS No. 151533-22-1) is the calcium salt of L-5- methyltetrahydrofolic acid (L-5-MTHF), which is the predominant naturally occurring folate in foods.
Calcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF-Ca) is a synthetic, crystalline form of folate that's a derivative of folic acid, also known as vitamin B9. It's the calcium salt of L-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid (L-5-MTHF), which is the most active form of folic acid and the main form of folate found in food. L-5-MTHF-Ca is used in dietary supplements and has been proposed as a treatment for cardiovascular disease. It's also added to infant formula, baby food, and processed cereal-based foods for nutritional purposes.
Keywords: Calcium L-methylfolate, L-5-MTHF-Ca, Toxicity, Genotoxicity, Developmental toxicity
5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) is the methylated form of folate, one of several B vitamins (B9). Both folate and folic acid-its synthetic form-are essential for healthy conception, fetal development, prevention of neural tube defects, DNA formation, cell growth, and other vital bodily functions.*
L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate calcium (L-5-MTHF-Ca) is a type of folic acid that is used in supplements and foods as an alternative to folic acid. It is generally considered safe for most people in doses up to 400 mcg per day. However, some research suggests that taking too much folic acid over a long period of time may cause serious side effects, such as an increased risk of cancer or heart attack.
Product Overview
Methyl Folate (L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate Calcium) is white to light yellow crystalline powder, which is a naturally formed calcium salt derivative of folic acid, which is the most biologically active and functional form of folic acid, and is easier to be absorbed than ordinary folic acid.
Product Description
Calcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate Powder is the active form of folate, a B-vitamin essential for various bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and the metabolism of homocysteine. |
Function
Calcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate is the bioavailable and metabolically active form of folate. It bypasses the methylation step required by other forms of folate, making it readily utilized by the body. This form of folate helps support normal cell division, proper nerve function, and overall health. |
Application
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Nutritional Supplements: Calcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate is used in dietary supplements to ensure adequate folate intake. It is particularly recommended for individuals with specific genetic variations that impair the utilization of other forms of folate.
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Prenatal Care: Adequate folate intake is crucial during pregnancy to support fetal development and reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Calcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate is used in prenatal multivitamins and supplements to meet the increased folate needs of expectant mothers.
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Cardiovascular Health: Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Calcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate can help lower homocysteine levels, supporting heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications.
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Mental Health: Adequate folate levels are important for healthy brain function and mood regulation. Calcium L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate may be used as part of a comprehensive approach in the management of certain mental health conditions, such as depression.
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* The statements in this section have not been evaluated by the FDA or EFSA.
References
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