Tag: B12 deficiency masked

Did you know that while synthetic folic acid helps prevent birth defects, high doses can lead to unmetabolized folic acid in the bloodstream? It's crucial to understand what are the side effects of synthetic folic acid, which differs significantly from natural folate.

Since folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin, excess amounts do not typically accumulate indefinitely in the body and are naturally flushed out through urine. However, persistently high levels from over-supplementation or excessive intake of fortified foods can lead to health concerns, making it important to manage your intake and support the body's natural elimination processes.

According to the Mayo Clinic, folic acid, the synthetic form of folate, is considered likely safe for most people when taken at recommended doses. However, this does not mean folate supplements have side effects, particularly when consumed in high doses, which can range from mild digestive issues to more serious health risks.

While it is extremely rare to get an overdose of naturally occurring folate from food, consuming excessive synthetic folic acid supplements, especially above 1mg daily, poses significant health risks. So, what happens if you have too much folate B9, particularly from supplemental sources, and what are the concerning side effects to be aware of?