Benefits of Supplementing 5-MTHF
Supplementing 5-MTHF can provide numerous health benefits. Usually associated with supplementing pre-natal development, 5-MTHF can also aid in the production of DNA and RNA, support cardiovascular health, and form red and white blood cells. This supplement is particularly beneficial for individuals with a genetic mutation that hinders the conversion of folic acid into its active form, 5-MTHF.
What 5-MTHF?
5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), is commonly known as methyl folate, is a bioactive form of folate found in blood and umbilical cord blood. Folate is a generic form of vitamin B9, with an added chemical group called methyl, which enhances its chemical properties [1]. Folate is an essential mineral that can be dissolved in water. Yet, humans cannot synthesize folate, meaning it must be obtained from the diet. Folate is usually obtained through the diet in the form of folic acid or through supplements like 5-MTHF.
Folate is traditionally linked to the following biological functions:
- cell division
- maintenance of new cells
- making RNA and DNA
- improving fertility and avoiding neural tube defects, such as spina bifida [2]
Although more novel, folate can also regulate mood and cardiovascular health, which leads researchers to studying methods of how to increase folate levels in the brain and body [3, 4].
5-MTHF Supplement Benefits
5-MTHF is an adapted form of folate that has improved bioavailability and can penetrate the blood-brain barrier to act in the brain [5]. This means that you need to eat less 5-MTHF compared to folic acid to observe the benefits of folate.
Why would I want to supplement 5-MTHF?
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Higher bioavailability
There are specific populations that may be at greater risk of folic acid deficiency who particularly benefit from 5-MTHF supplements. Thes include people with genetic defects, estimate in about 40% of the general population [1]. People with genetic defects may not be able to metabolise folica acid, leaving it biologically unavailable. 5-MTHF has a benefit over folate in this aspect, since it can be used even by people with genetic defects in folate metabolism. Furthermore, 5-MTHF can be taken even when there are disruptions to the gastrointestinal pH, such as in gastric conditions [6].
Mental health benefits
5-MTHF can also benefit mental health. A study found that supplementing 50mg per day of 5-MTHF for 6 weeks improved depressive symptoms in an elderly cohort [3]. Furthemore, a role of folate in postpartum depression has also been discussed [2]. Together, these sources indicate potential benefits of 5-MTHF supplement on mood [3].
Cardiovascular health benefits
5-MTHF supplements can also benefit cardiovascular health. This is because folate can increase the flexibility of the vessel walls, making them adjustable to changes in blood demand [2].
Pre-natal health and fertility
The most common reason why 5-MTHF supplements are taken is for pregnancy. Taking 5-MTHF during pregnancy has a quicker biological availability, does not disrupt stomach pH and can have added benefits for maternal mental health [2]. It can also improve fertility and for the prevent of embryonal neural tube defects [6, 2].
Reducing methotrexate toxicity
5-MTHF is additionally an effective agent for preventing methotrexate toxicity. Methotrexate toxicity is a common side effect of high-dose methotrexate treatment, a treatment used to tackle leukemia [7].
Reducing memory impairment and oxidative stress
In an experimental study, 5-MTHF supplements could even reduce memory damage in a rat model of Alzheimer's disease. This was attributed to a reduction in the release of amyloid β-protein 1-42 and phosphorylated Tau protein. At present, these are the two most commonly associated proteins with Alzheimer's disease symptoms. Additionally, 5-MTHF reduced oxidative stress and the release of cytokines, making it an promising supplement for further investigation [8].
Side Effects of 5-MTHF Supplements
5-MTHF is, in general, considered safe to supplement, with studies showing low risks of side effects. Nonetheless, it may cause some adverse reactions in certain individuals, just like any supplement.
One of the potential side effects of 5-MTHF is gastrointestinal discomfort. This can be experienced as nause, loss of appetite or vomiting, although these effects may also be attributable to a concurrent illness or conditions [9]. Similarly, patient groups supplementing 5-MTHF while undergoing treatment for colorectal cancer reported low blood cell count and inflammation of the mouth and lips, both of which are more likely a result of colorectal cancer treatment [10].
It's important to highlight that these side effects were observed in studies where 5-MTHF was used in combination with other drugs for the treatment of serious conditions like cancer. Therefore, supplementing 5-MTHF is unlikely to lead to these side effects when used by people without cancer or undergoing cancer therapy.
As with all supplements or medications, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new regimen.