Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid/Folate)

Shop folic acid and folate supplements at Evergreen, including tablets, capsules and liquid formulas from trusted brands. Also known as vitamin B9, folate supports normal blood formation, psychological function and maternal tissue growth during pregnancy.

Folic Acid, Folate & Vitamin B9 Supplements

Vitamin B9 is an essential water-soluble vitamin involved in several important processes in the body. You'll commonly see it referred to as folate or folic acid, depending on the form and context.

At Evergreen, you'll find folic acid and folate supplements in a range of formats, including tablets, capsules, powders and liquid formulas from trusted supplement brands.

What Is Vitamin B9?

Vitamin B9 is commonly known as folate. Folate occurs naturally in foods, while folic acid is a form of vitamin B9 widely used in supplements and fortified foods.

Vitamin B9 contributes to normal blood formation, normal psychological function and normal immune system function. It also contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism and helps reduce tiredness and fatigue.

Folate also has a particularly important role before and during pregnancy because it contributes to maternal tissue growth.

Folate vs Folic Acid: What's the Difference?

The terms folate and folic acid are sometimes used interchangeably, but they don't mean exactly the same thing.

Folate is the general term for vitamin B9 and includes the forms naturally present in foods.

Folic acid is a form of vitamin B9 commonly used in food supplements and fortified foods.

You may also encounter other forms of folate in supplements, including 5-MTHF (5-methyltetrahydrofolate), sometimes described as methylfolate or an active form of folate.

When comparing supplements, check the label to see which form and amount of vitamin B9 the product provides.

What Foods Contain Folate?

Folate occurs naturally in a variety of foods, particularly green leafy vegetables. Other dietary sources include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, peas, chickpeas, kidney beans and some fortified foods.

A varied and balanced diet can help provide the folate you need, although there are particular circumstances when folic acid supplementation is recommended.

Folic Acid and Pregnancy

Folate is especially important before conception and during early pregnancy because it contributes to maternal tissue growth.

Women who are planning a pregnancy are generally advised to take a folic acid supplement before becoming pregnant and during the early stages of pregnancy.

The amount recommended can vary in certain circumstances, so follow official health guidance and speak to your GP, pharmacist or other healthcare professional if you're unsure which dose is appropriate for you.

Choosing a Folic Acid or Folate Supplement

There are several things to consider when comparing vitamin B9 supplements.

Folic Acid Tablets and Capsules

Tablets and capsules are among the most widely available forms and come in different strengths. Always check the amount provided per recommended daily serving.

Liquid Folic Acid

Liquid folic acid and folate supplements provide an alternative for people who prefer not to swallow tablets or capsules.

As concentrations differ between products, check the serving instructions carefully rather than comparing products simply by the amount of liquid in the bottle.

Methylfolate and Active Folate

Some supplements contain folate as 5-MTHF or methylfolate rather than folic acid.

Different forms shouldn't automatically be considered better for everyone. Look at the complete formulation, amount provided and your individual requirements when choosing a supplement.

Folic Acid or B Complex?

If you're specifically looking for vitamin B9, an individual folic acid or folate supplement allows you to choose the form and amount you want.

A Vitamin B Complex combines folate with several other B vitamins in one formula and may be more appropriate if you're looking for broader B-vitamin supplementation.

You can also explore our wider Vitamin B Supplements range or individual B vitamins, including Vitamin B12 Supplements.

Shop Folic Acid & Folate Supplements at Evergreen

Explore folic acid, folate and vitamin B9 supplements from trusted brands at Evergreen, including tablets, capsules, powders and liquid formulas.

Check individual product information carefully for the form of folate, serving size and recommended daily intake, particularly if you're choosing a supplement before or during pregnancy.