Folic acid, a synthetic form of the B vitamin folate, is important for women's health, especially those who are or may become pregnant. Folic acid supports fetal brain and spinal cord development, making it a critical supplement. Gummies are a popular choice for those who prefer them over pills. This article explores several vitamin gummies that have folic acid in them, covering options for prenatal care and general health.
Popular Prenatal Vitamin Gummies with Folic Acid
Prenatal gummies are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of pregnant women. They focus on folic acid and often include other nutrients like DHA, Vitamin D, and iron.
- One A Day Women's Prenatal Gummies: This brand provides a multivitamin that includes folic acid and DHA. Their gummies offer a higher dosage of folic acid.
- Olly Essential Prenatal Gummies: These gummies include folic acid and DHA. They are gentle and do not usually contain iron.
- SmartyPants Organic Prenatal Multi & Omegas: These gummies include folic acid and omegas from plant-based sources.
Multivitamin Gummies for General Wellness
Multivitamin gummies can also contain folic acid. Folic acid supports the production of red blood cells, cell growth, and a healthy nervous system.
- Viteey Vitamin B Complex Gummies: These gummies feature folic acid along with other B vitamins. They support energy metabolism and overall health.
- Nutricost Folic Acid Gummies: These gummies contain 1,000 mcg of folic acid per serving. They are often vegetarian and third-party tested.
Folate vs. Folic Acid: What's the Difference?
It is important to understand the difference between folate and folic acid when choosing a supplement.
| Feature | Folate | Folic Acid |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Naturally occurring in foods like leafy greens, citrus, and beans. | Synthetic, manufactured form of folate, used in supplements and fortified foods. |
| Absorption | Can be less stable and less bioavailable; up to 50-75% can be lost during processing. | Highly stable and almost completely bioavailable; 85% absorbed compared to food folate. |
| Metabolism | Metabolized in the small intestine and can be used by the body immediately. | Must be metabolized by the liver and other tissues; excess can remain unmetabolized in the bloodstream. |
| Labeling | Listed as mcg DFE (Dietary Folate Equivalents) on supplement labels. | Also included within the mcg DFE value, often specified in parentheses. |
| Best For | Getting from a whole-food diet, though supplement absorption can vary by form. | Ensuring a consistent and well-absorbed dose, especially crucial for preventing neural tube defects. |
For some people, a form like L-methylfolate (a metabolically active form of folate) is preferred. However, folic acid is the standard and most researched form for preventing neural tube defects. Consult a healthcare professional to determine the best form and dosage.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Folic Acid Gummy
Choose a gummy vitamin with folic acid based on your needs, such as pregnancy or general wellness. Prenatal gummies from One A Day and Olly are reliable options for expectant mothers. Specialized products from Nutricost or B-complex gummies can serve general wellness goals. Check the label for the amount of folic acid. Discuss your supplement plan with a healthcare provider to ensure it meets your individual health requirements.
Explore the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements' resource on folate.
