Sundown Folate 666 mcg DFE (400 mcg Folic Acid)

Our assessment

The evidence shows that Sundown Folate 666 mcg DFE (400 mcg Folic Acid) is a standard-dose supplement. Our assessment: for most healthy adults, this amount helps meet the daily recommendation for folate, which is critical for cell growth and DNA synthesis. However, the data provided does not include specific findings for this exact product, only general information on a different ingredient, calcium [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of folate as a building block for your body's genetic material. It helps your body make new cells, which is especially important during periods of rapid growth like pregnancy and fetal development [NIH ODS]. The form in this product, folic acid, is converted into the active form of folate in your body to support these functions [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

Data not available for this specific product's side effects. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, but no specific report count is provided for folic acid or this product [FDA data]. The general safety data provided is for calcium, not folate, and states that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer, and can cause poor muscle tone, constipation, nausea, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

You can take this supplement as directed on the label to help meet your daily folate needs, especially if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Because the safety data provided is not for this specific ingredient, we recommend you consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. They can help you determine if this dose is right for you [NIH ODS].

Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:

• Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
• Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
• % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
• Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
• Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.

Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide