Do Hiya Vitamins Use Methylfolate?
Yes, the manufacturer Hiya Health explicitly confirms that its children's chewable multivitamins contain L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF), which is the most active and readily usable form of folate, also known as methylfolate. Unlike many conventional children's vitamins that contain synthetic folic acid, Hiya's formula uses a naturally occurring form of Vitamin B9 derived from organic quinoa sprouts. This choice is a key selling point for the brand, targeting parents who prefer more bioavailable and less-processed ingredients for their children's nutritional supplements.
The Crucial Difference Between Methylfolate and Folic Acid
To understand why Hiya's use of methylfolate is significant, it's essential to know the distinction between the different forms of Vitamin B9. Folate is the general term for this essential B vitamin. The version found naturally in foods like leafy greens and beans is called folate. Synthetic folic acid is the version most commonly added to fortified foods and supplements.
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Folic Acid (Synthetic Folate): For the body to use folic acid, it must be converted into the active form, L-5-MTHF. This conversion process relies on the MTHFR enzyme. Unfortunately, a significant portion of the population has a genetic variation (MTHFR gene mutation) that can impair their ability to make this conversion efficiently. For these individuals, synthetic folic acid can build up in the body and potentially cause adverse effects.
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Methylfolate (Active Folate): Methylfolate, or 5-MTHF, is the ready-to-use form that bypasses the need for the MTHFR enzyme conversion. By supplementing with methylfolate directly, individuals with or without the MTHFR genetic variation can absorb and utilize the nutrient more effectively. This ensures that the body receives and processes the folate it needs more efficiently. Hiya's use of this superior form demonstrates a commitment to ingredient quality and broad nutritional effectiveness.
Benefits of Choosing Methylfolate for Children
Choosing a vitamin with methylfolate over folic acid offers several advantages, especially for growing children. Hiya emphasizes the use of L-5-MTHF for reasons that go beyond simple folate replenishment.
Enhanced Absorption and Utilization
Because methylfolate is the body's active form of folate, it is immediately available for use. This bypasses any potential absorption issues related to genetic variations and ensures a more consistent level of the nutrient for critical bodily functions. For a child with an MTHFR gene mutation, this could mean the difference between getting adequate folate or not.
Support for Cellular Growth and Development
Folate is crucial for new cell production and DNA synthesis, which are ongoing and rapid processes in childhood. Having a readily available, highly absorbable form of this nutrient supports proper development at a foundational level.
Potential Benefits for Neurodevelopment
Some studies have explored the connection between folate status and neurodevelopment, including conditions like ADHD and mood disorders. While more research is needed, a highly bioavailable folate source like methylfolate is thought to be beneficial for brain health, mood, and overall neurological function.
Avoiding Unmetabolized Folic Acid
When synthetic folic acid is not properly metabolized, it can accumulate in the bloodstream. This accumulation is a non-issue with methylfolate, as it is already in the active form that the body can use. High levels of unmetabolized folic acid can be a concern, and Hiya avoids this by using the natural form.
Comparison: Hiya (Methylfolate) vs. Conventional Vitamin (Folic Acid)
| Feature | Hiya (with Methylfolate) | Conventional Kids Vitamin (with Folic Acid) |
|---|---|---|
| Folate Form | L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (L-5-MTHF) | Synthetic Folic Acid |
| Absorption | Highly bioavailable; does not require metabolic conversion | Requires conversion by the MTHFR enzyme |
| Genetic Compatibility | Suitable for all children, including those with MTHFR gene mutations | May be less effective for individuals with MTHFR mutations |
| Processing | Bypasses the liver conversion process, used directly by the body | Must be broken down by the liver before being used |
| Risk of UMFA | Does not lead to a buildup of unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA) | Can result in unmetabolized folic acid in the bloodstream |
| Ingredient Source | Natural source (e.g., from organic quinoa sprouts) | Synthetic compound |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hiya vitamins do contain methylfolate, specifically in the highly absorbable L-5-methyltetrahydrofolate form, and this choice is a significant advantage for the product. For parents seeking transparency and quality in their child's supplements, understanding the benefits of methylfolate over synthetic folic acid is crucial. By opting for the more bioavailable methylated form, Hiya ensures optimal nutrient utilization for all children, regardless of potential genetic differences in folate metabolism. This dedication to ingredient quality, along with its sugar-free formulation, positions Hiya as a premium choice in the children's vitamin market. Parents who prioritize natural and effective ingredients for their kids can feel confident knowing the folate in Hiya's vitamins is already in the best form for their body to use.
For more detailed information on the difference between folate forms and the potential effects of MTHFR gene variants, consult the health professional fact sheet from the National Institutes of Health.
