Most people know that folate is important for women during pregnancy, but everyone, young and old, needs this essential vitamin in adequate levels. Despite good dietary sources of folate, such as lentils and spinach, the majority of the population has an insufficient folate intake. Folic acid must first be converted to its active form by a series of biochemical steps, before it is able to be used by the body. Methylfolate requires no conversion because it is body-ready. This can be useful for individuals whose bodies have difficulty converting folic acid to its active form.
Optimal levels of serotonin and dopamine, both derived from amino acids, are required for good mood. With folate supporting both amino acid synthesis and normal psychological function, it may well be that this essential vitamin lifts low mood. Studies have shown that a folate deficiency may also lead to insomnia and poor memory.
Poor folate status has also been linked with high homocysteine levels. Raised levels of homocysteine are associated with cardiovascular conditions, such as atherosclerosis and stroke, as well as contributing to conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, osteoporosis and the ageing process.
Folate contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism, amino acid synthesis, and reducing tiredness and fatigue.