Folate (Vitamin B9 / 5-MTHF) in Multivitamins

Informational only: This page is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before starting supplements.

Folate is a B-vitamin essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and neural tube development during pregnancy. The methylated form (5-MTHF) is the bioactive form that bypasses MTHFR gene variants.

Benefits

  • Prevents neural tube defects during early pregnancy
  • Essential for DNA synthesis and cell division
  • Reduces homocysteine levels (heart disease risk factor)
  • Supports red blood cell production
  • Critical for brain and spinal cord development in fetuses

Recommended Daily Value

400mcg DFE for adults; 600mcg DFE during pregnancy

Food Sources

  • Leafy green vegetables
  • Legumes
  • Fortified grains
  • Asparagus
  • Avocado

Scientific Reference

Bailey LB et al. The New Recommended Dietary Allowances for Folate. J Nutr. 1998;128:1988S-1996S.

Multivitamins Containing Folate (Vitamin B9 / 5-MTHF)

200mcg DFE
$55
capsule

The most evidence-based daily multivitamin on the market. Every one of its 26 ingredients is backed by human RCTs at the exact dose used in clinical trials — methylated B vitamins, glycinate-form minerals, 200mg hyaluronic acid for skin health, TMG for cognition and exercise, and microencapsulated carotenoids for eye protection. It deliberately excludes Vitamin A and E based on safety research, and consolidates 6–8 separate supplements into one formula.

400mcg DFE
$33
capsule

Transparent, traceable ingredients in a minimalist formula designed specifically for women — excellent for those who value clean labels.

400mcg DFE
$39
capsule

Best-in-class for bioavailability — Thorne uses superior active forms of every nutrient with no unnecessary additives.

600mcg DFE
$49.99
tablet

Best organic prenatal vitamin — USDA Certified Organic with methylfolate and whole-food iron that's gentle on the stomach.

200mcg DFE
$22.49
gummy

Best-tasting kids multivitamin with premium nutrients (methylcobalamin, omega-3 DHA) that most gummies skip.

400mcg DFE
$18.99
tablet

Most affordable complete multivitamin for men over 50 — covers the basics with added lycopene and higher B12.

400mcg DFE
Centrum Silver Women 50+
4.4
(31,204 ratings)
$19.99
tablet

The most widely recommended pharmacy multivitamin for women over 50 — complete, affordable, and clinically studied.

400mcg DFE
Nature Made Multi for Her
4.4
(20,981 ratings)
$14.99
tablet

Best budget multivitamin for women — USP Verified, affordable, and covers all the essentials including iron.