Tag: High folate

High folate levels are increasingly observed in the population, with one study finding that a significant percentage of adults taking supplements have elevated serum folate concentrations. Understanding what causes very high folate levels is crucial, as this condition can mask underlying issues and potentially lead to negative health outcomes.

While folate deficiency has been a historical public health concern, recent studies show that some populations, particularly those taking supplements, now face elevated levels. This article will explore what is high folate status, examining its causes, potential risks, and safe management strategies to maintain optimal health.

While folate is essential for health, blood levels consistently above 20 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) are considered elevated, and exceeding 24 ng/mL is definitively high, often requiring a medical evaluation. This differs from dietary intake, which is measured in micrograms (mcg).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the tolerable upper intake level for synthetic folic acid in adults is 1,000 micrograms (mcg) per day. While a high intake of natural folate from food is generally not a concern, excess folic acid from supplements and fortified foods can lead to elevated blood levels.

According to a study conducted by Segterra scientists, high blood levels of folate were found in half of all subjects, indicating it's a surprisingly common issue. Understanding why is my folate really high involves looking beyond diet alone to uncover potential underlying causes, which can have significant health implications.

Excessive folate intake, particularly from supplements and fortified foods, is a primary cause of elevated blood levels. Learning how to lower high folate levels involves a careful evaluation of dietary habits and supplement routines under medical guidance to prevent potential health risks.

Since 1998, the U.S. has mandated folic acid fortification in grain products, significantly increasing population-wide intake. This practice, alongside supplement use, prompts a critical question: should I be worried about high folate levels?

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.

While folate deficiency is widely recognized, less attention is given to the consequences of excess folate, a condition sometimes called hyperfolatemia. When your folate level is high, particularly from synthetic folic acid supplements, it can have serious health implications, including masking a critical vitamin B12 deficiency.

According to the National Institutes of Health, a folate level greater than 20 ng/mL on a blood test is typically considered elevated. While often resulting from excessive folic acid from supplements or fortified foods, high folate can signify underlying health issues or mask a serious vitamin B12 deficiency.