L-methylfolate Supplementation by Steven Hunt, PA-C

Folate is a B vitamin found in a variety of foods and over the counter/prescription supplements. It is metabolized by the body into a form called L-methylfolate.  This form of folate can cross the blood brain barrier where it aids in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters serve as pivotal players in regulating our mood and anxiety.

Recent research links L-methylfolate deficiencies to depression, noting that there is an inverse relationship between low mood and this metabolized form of folate.  Furthermore, research indicates there maybe as a high as 70% of individuals with depression are inadequately metabolizing folate to L-methylfolate, all of which could
detract from antidepressant medication/therapeutic interventions.

Please talk to your current prescriber, or a mental health professional at Providers For Healthy Living; about folate conversion testing if you feel L-methylfolate is something that could benefit your current treatment plan.