What is Folate 1333 mcg DFE Good For? Understanding the Benefits

January 5, 2026 •

4 min read

Adequate folate intake is crucial for preventing serious birth defects, a fact that highlights the importance of supplements like folate 1333 mcg dfe, which is often a high-potency source of this essential B vitamin. This dosage, frequently containing 800 mcg of synthetic folic acid, provides key benefits for cell production, heart health, and nervous system function.

Quick Summary

Folate 1333 mcg DFE is beneficial for prenatal development, heart health by regulating homocysteine levels, red blood cell production, and nervous system function.

Key Points

Crucial for Prenatal Health: A primary benefit is the prevention of neural tube birth defects in a developing fetus, a recommendation supported by the CDC.
Supports Heart Function: Helps manage and lower homocysteine levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Essential for Blood Cells: Required for the formation of healthy red blood cells, which prevents certain types of anemia.
Vital for Cell Growth: Supports DNA and RNA synthesis, promoting proper cell division and repair throughout the body.
Aids Nervous System: Contributes to a healthy nervous system and may support cognitive function and mood.
High Potency Dose: The 1333 mcg DFE (often 800 mcg folic acid) is a high-dose supplement for targeted support, especially for those with specific health needs.
Different Forms Exist: While most supplements use folic acid, some offer L-methylfolate (Metafolin), an active form useful for individuals with genetic conversion issues.

Understanding Folate and Dietary Folate Equivalents (DFE)

Folate, or vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays an essential role in numerous bodily functions. A supplement labeled as folate 1333 mcg DFE requires an understanding of what the DFE measurement represents. DFE, or Dietary Folate Equivalent, was developed because the body absorbs synthetic folic acid (the form in fortified foods and supplements) more easily than naturally occurring folate found in food. A supplement with 1333 mcg DFE often contains 800 mcg of synthetic folic acid, a potent dose that is particularly important for certain health needs.

Prenatal Health and Fetal Development

One of the most critical and well-documented benefits of adequate folate is its role in preventing neural tube defects (NTDs) in a developing fetus. The neural tube, which forms the baby's brain and spinal cord, develops in the first few weeks of pregnancy, often before a person knows they are pregnant. This is why public health organizations, like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommend that all individuals capable of becoming pregnant consume a daily dose of folic acid. A high-dose supplement like folate 1333 mcg DFE is frequently prescribed for those with a history of NTDs or other specific risk factors, ensuring robust support for early fetal development. Beyond NTD prevention, sufficient folate intake may also help reduce the risk of other complications like preterm birth and low birth weight.

Cardiovascular Wellness

Folate plays a crucial part in maintaining heart health. It is involved in the metabolism of the amino acid homocysteine. High levels of homocysteine in the blood are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. By helping to convert homocysteine into methionine, folate helps keep homocysteine levels within a healthy range, thereby supporting cardiovascular wellness. This function makes a folate supplement beneficial for those looking to support their heart health, though it is not a replacement for comprehensive cardiovascular care.

Supporting Red Blood Cell Production

Folate is indispensable for the production of healthy new red and white blood cells. Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body, and a deficiency in folate can lead to a condition known as megaloblastic anemia. This type of anemia is characterized by abnormally large, poorly functioning red blood cells, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Taking a folate supplement like 1333 mcg DFE ensures the body has the necessary nutrients to produce healthy blood cells, warding off deficiency-related issues.

The Role in Cellular Function and DNA Synthesis

At a cellular level, folate is vital for synthesizing and repairing DNA and other genetic material. This makes it essential for proper cell growth, division, and function. The high dose in a 1333 mcg DFE supplement helps ensure that these fundamental cellular processes are carried out efficiently. This is particularly important during periods of rapid cell division, such as in pregnancy, but it is also a continuous requirement for overall cellular health throughout life.

Cognitive Function and Mood Support

Emerging research suggests a link between folate levels and mental health. Low blood folate has been associated with poor mental function and an increased risk of dementia in older adults. Folate is involved in the production of neurotransmitters, the brain chemicals that regulate mood. While more robust studies are needed, some findings suggest that folate supplements, taken alongside other treatments, may improve symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions. For individuals experiencing cognitive or mood issues, consulting a healthcare provider about folate supplementation can be a beneficial step.

Bioavailability: Natural Folate vs. Synthetic Folic Acid

Not all folate is created equal. The natural form, found in foods, must be converted by the body for use. Synthetic folic acid, however, is more easily absorbed. For individuals with specific genetic variations, such as the MTHFR polymorphism, the body's ability to convert folic acid into its active form may be impaired. In these cases, some supplements use a bio-active form of folate, such as L-methylfolate (Metafolin), which does not require this conversion.

Comparison of Natural Folate vs. Synthetic Folic Acid


Feature	Natural Food Folate	Synthetic Folic Acid (e.g., in 1333 mcg DFE)
Source	Found naturally in foods like leafy greens, legumes, and eggs.	Added to fortified foods and found in supplements.
Absorption	Less efficiently absorbed by the body compared to folic acid.	Up to 100% absorbed by the body on an empty stomach, or 85% with food.
Measurement	Measured in micrograms (mcg) DFE.	Measured in mcg, but labeled on supplements and fortified foods to show contribution to DFE.
Bioavailability	Depends on food matrix and individual digestive processes.	Consistent and high bioavailability.
Active Form	Converted by the body to its active form (L-methylfolate).	Some individuals with MTHFR gene mutations have trouble converting it.

Food Sources of Folate

For a natural boost, it is important to include folate-rich foods in your diet. While supplements offer a direct and potent dose, food sources provide additional nutrients and are a cornerstone of a healthy eating pattern. Good sources include:

Dark Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, romaine lettuce
Legumes: Lentils, black-eyed peas, kidney beans
Fruits: Oranges, bananas, papayas, cantaloupe
Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, avocado
Fortified Grains: Enriched breads, cereals, and pastas
Animal Products: Beef liver and eggs

Conclusion

Folate 1333 mcg DFE is a potent dose of this essential B vitamin with significant benefits, particularly for prenatal health, cardiovascular function, and red blood cell production. It plays a foundational role in cellular health and DNA synthesis, and emerging evidence suggests it may also support cognitive function and mood. While many can meet their needs through a folate-rich diet, supplements are often necessary, especially for pregnant individuals or those with specific health conditions. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional to determine if a supplement with this high dosage is right for your individual health needs. The use of terms like DFE helps to account for the difference in how the body processes natural folate versus synthetic folic acid, ensuring you get the most effective form of this critical nutrient.

Frequently Asked Questions

DFE stands for Dietary Folate Equivalents, a unit of measure that accounts for the difference in absorption between natural food folate and synthetic folic acid. A 1333 mcg DFE supplement typically contains 800 mcg of synthetic folic acid.

While folate is generally safe, a dose this high is typically intended for specific needs. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any high-potency supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have a pre-existing medical condition.

This dose is often recommended for pregnant individuals to prevent neural tube defects, individuals with certain genetic conditions affecting folate metabolism (like MTHFR mutation), or those with a confirmed folate deficiency, all under the guidance of a doctor.

Many people can get adequate folate from a balanced diet, including leafy greens, legumes, and fortified grains. However, for high-demand periods like pregnancy or specific health conditions, a supplement with a high dose like 1333 mcg DFE is often necessary to ensure sufficient intake.

Symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, irritability, and pale skin, and can lead to a type of anemia known as megaloblastic anemia.

Yes, there is naturally occurring folate in food and synthetic folic acid in supplements. Additionally, some supplements offer L-methylfolate (e.g., Metafolin), a bio-active form that doesn't require conversion by the body, which is helpful for those with impaired metabolism.

This dose provides the necessary folate to help the body break down homocysteine, an amino acid linked to heart disease and stroke. Keeping homocysteine levels healthy is a key benefit.