The Vitamin Shoppe Folic Acid 400 mcg 680 mcg DFE
Brand: The Vitamin Shoppe · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that folic acid is a critical nutrient for DNA synthesis and cell division. The Vitamin Shoppe Folic Acid 400 mcg (680 mcg DFE) provides the exact amount that meets the Recommended Dietary Allowance for most adults [NIH ODS]. For women of childbearing age, this is especially important because adequate folic acid intake before and during early pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of folic acid as a building block supplier for your body. It helps your body produce and maintain new cells, which is crucial during periods of rapid growth like pregnancy and infancy [NIH ODS]. Your body converts folic acid into the active form (folate) that participates in DNA replication and amino acid metabolism [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 694 adverse event reports for folic acid. Reported side effects include nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and rash [FDA data]. High doses (above 1,000 mcg daily) can mask a vitamin B12 deficiency, which is particularly important for older adults [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start with one 400 mcg tablet daily. Women planning pregnancy or who are pregnant should take 400-800 mcg daily from supplements [NIH ODS]. Choose this product if you need a straightforward, standard-dose option. Data not available on specific interactions with other medications.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | The Vitamin Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 300.0 Tablet(s) |
| Market Status | On Market |
How to Read This Label
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