Life Extension BioActive Folate & Vitamin B12
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product is a straightforward combination of two well-studied B vitamins. Our assessment: for most people, getting adequate folate and B12 is essential for energy metabolism and red blood cell formation, but supplementation is most beneficial if you have a known deficiency or a specific need, such as during pregnancy or with a vegan diet. Data not available on the specific dosage in this product, so we cannot confirm it meets any particular RDA.
How it works
Think of vitamin B12 and folate as a team that works together to support your body's basic functions. They help convert the food you eat into usable energy, and they are critical for the production of healthy red blood cells and DNA synthesis [NIH ODS]. While the provided data focuses on calcium, the general mechanism for B vitamins is to act as coenzymes in these essential cellular processes.
Safety profile
FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all dietary supplements, though specific report counts for this product are not available. For the calcium component of the product, high intakes can cause constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS]. Data not available for side effects specific to the folate and B12 ingredients in this formulation.
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: before starting this supplement, have your healthcare provider check your blood levels of B12 and folate to confirm a deficiency. If you are not deficient, a standard multivitamin may be a more balanced choice. If you are vegan or pregnant, this targeted supplement could be useful, but use the specific dosage on the label as a guide. Data not available on the exact dosage, so follow the label instructions carefully [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Vegetarian Capsule(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