Choosing the right prenatal vitamin is crucial for a healthy pregnancy, and folate is one of the most essential nutrients to look for. Folate, the natural form of vitamin B9, supports fetal development, helps prevent neural tube defects, and is vital for cell growth and DNA formation. If you’re looking for the best prenatal vitamins with folate, this guide will help you make an informed choice.
Why Choose Prenatal Vitamins with Folate?
While folic acid is the synthetic form of vitamin B9 found in many prenatal vitamins, folate is the naturally occurring version and is often preferred for better absorption and fewer side effects. Choosing a prenatal vitamin with folate instead of folic acid can provide better support for you and your baby’s health. Below, we’ll explore the top five prenatal vitamins with folate that you can easily purchase on Amazon.
Top 5 Prenatal Vitamins with Folate
1. Garden of Life Organics Prenatal
- Folate Source: Organic food-based folate (800 mcg DFE)
- Why We Love It: Garden of Life Organics Prenatal is a certified organic, non-GMO vitamin made from whole foods. It contains 800 mcg DFE of organic folate, derived from real food sources. The formula is gentle on the stomach and includes other essential nutrients like iron, vitamins D3, and B12. It’s also free from synthetic fillers and artificial ingredients.
- Key Benefits:
- USDA organic and non-GMO verified
- Contains probiotics for digestive support
- Vegan and gluten-free
- Best For: Moms seeking an all-natural, organic prenatal vitamin with whole-food-based folate.
2. MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Prenatal
- Folate Source: FoodState folate (600 mcg DFE)
- Why We Love It: MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Prenatal is designed to support both mom and baby with a combination of food-based nutrients. It contains 600 mcg DFE of FoodState folate, which is easy to digest and absorb. The formula is crafted with organic ingredients and is free from glyphosate and other harmful chemicals. It also provides choline, iron, and B vitamins for complete prenatal support.
- Key Benefits:
- Non-GMO and certified glyphosate residue-free
- Gentle on the stomach with no artificial additives
- Includes organic ingredients for added nutrition
- Best For: Expectant mothers looking for a simple, food-based prenatal vitamin with natural folate.
3. Thorne Research Basic Prenatal
- Folate Source: Methylated folate (1,000 mcg DFE)
- Why We Love It: Thorne Research Basic Prenatal is a trusted choice among healthcare professionals. It provides 1,000 mcg DFE of methylated folate (5-MTHF), which is the active form of folate that the body can easily utilize. This formula includes essential nutrients like iron bisglycinate, calcium, and vitamin D, without any unnecessary additives. Thorne is known for its rigorous quality testing and clean ingredients.
- Key Benefits:
- Contains highly absorbable methylated folate
- Free from gluten, dairy, and soy
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Best For: Women who need a reliable, doctor-recommended prenatal vitamin with the active form of folate.
4. Naturelo Prenatal
- Folate Source: Natural folate from organic lemon (800 mcg DFE)
- Why We Love It: Naturelo Prenatal is a plant-based, non-GMO supplement that provides 800 mcg DFE of natural folate sourced from organic lemon. The formula is free from synthetic ingredients, and it includes a wide range of vitamins and minerals like vitamin D3, iron, calcium, and iodine. It’s designed to support the immune system, energy levels, and baby’s development with clean, whole-food-based ingredients.
- Key Benefits:
- Plant-based, non-GMO formula with organic ingredients
- Gentle on the stomach and easy to digest
- Includes Omega-3 DHA from algae
- Best For: Moms who prefer a plant-based prenatal vitamin with natural folate and Omega-3s.
5. New Chapter Perfect Prenatal
- Folate Source: Organic whole-food folate (600 mcg DFE)
- Why We Love It: New Chapter Perfect Prenatal is a highly rated, whole-food-based supplement that includes 600 mcg DFE of folate from organic sources. It’s formulated with fermented ingredients, making it easy to digest and gentle on the stomach. The vitamin also supports immune health, energy, and overall well-being with a blend of organic herbs and nutrients.
- Key Benefits:
- Fermented with probiotics for better absorption
- Organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free
- Gentle on an empty stomach
- Best For: Pregnant women looking for a whole-food-based prenatal with fermented ingredients for better digestion.
How to Choose the Right Prenatal Vitamin with Folate
When shopping for a prenatal vitamin, consider the following factors:
- Folate Content: Look for a vitamin that provides at least 600 mcg of folate, ideally from natural or methylated sources for better absorption.
- Whole-Food Ingredients: Opt for vitamins made from organic or whole-food sources to avoid synthetic additives.
- Additional Nutrients: A good prenatal should also contain iron, calcium, vitamin D, iodine, and other essential nutrients for pregnancy support.
- Non-GMO and Organic: Choose brands that prioritize organic, non-GMO, and chemical-free ingredients for the healthiest options.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Prenatal Vitamin with Folate
Folate is a critical nutrient for pregnancy, and choosing the right prenatal vitamin can make a big difference in supporting your baby’s healthy development. The five prenatal vitamins listed above are excellent choices, each offering a unique combination of benefits, clean ingredients, and high-quality folate sources.
Investing in the right prenatal vitamin with folate is a small step that can have a significant impact on you and your baby’s health. Choose wisely, and enjoy a healthier, happier pregnancy journey!
Shop the Best Prenatal Vitamins on Amazon
- Garden of Life Organics Prenatal
- MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Prenatal
- Thorne Research Basic Prenatal
- Naturelo Prenatal
- New Chapter Perfect Prenatal
These top picks provide a range of options for every expecting mother, ensuring you have access to the best prenatal support with high-quality folate.
