Many individuals don’t get sufficient 5-MTHF (L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate), the active form of folic acid, because they have intestinal or liver dysfunction, or because they are among the three out of five Americans whose genetic makeup makes it difficult to convert folic acid into active 5-MTHF. A deficiency of folic acid has been linked to low-birth-weight infants and neural tube defects, which is why the Centers for Disease Control recommends folic acid supplementation for all women of childbearing age. Since 5-MTHF also contributes to the production of serotonin, melatonin, dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine, supplementation supports healthy mood

Pre-conception, pregnancy, and nursing are critical times to optimize a mother’s health and nutrition, which is important for both for mother and baby. Overall nutritional and caloric needs greatly increase during this time. However, it is often difficult for a woman to fulfill her daily nutrient needs through diet alone.