How much folate does one need

[Damseltree]

Does anyone know please. Once I start B12 injections how much folate will I need to take to keep it in balance. I don't have any faith that the Dr will know.

[Gambit62 Administrator]

sorry but there isn't really an answer to your question.

A B12 absorption problem such as PA can also affect folate absorption so you may need to consume higher levels of folate to ensure you get the right amount for your cells to do everything.

Many of the processes that use B12 also use folate so being B12 deficient may have meant that those processes weren't running properly and you have been using less folate for a while, which could mean that you will start using slightly more folate when the B12 is there and the processes are running properly.

It is also possible that you could have some genetic traits that make you less efficient at processing methyl folate etc which would mean you need slightly more folate than someone who doesn't have those genetic traits.

All that means a lot off ifs and buts that can't really be answered.

The best source of folate is food - eg green leafy vegetables so you could look at upping your intake if it is currently low.

You could also look at taking a supermarket supplement - 400mcg.

Taking too much folate can cause problems so wouldn't recommend taking more than 1000mcg per day

[fbirder]

Taking B12 supplements doesn't increase your need for folate.

It is recommended that all women of childbearing potential take 400 mcg a day of folic acid. So that's probably a good place to start.

[Damseltree in reply to fbirder]

Thank you for your replies. It gives me some idea.