Solgar Folate 400 mcg (As Metafolin)

Our assessment

The evidence shows that Solgar Folate 400 mcg (as Metafolin) is a folate supplement, but the data provided does not contain specific studies or adverse event reports for this product alone. Based on the ingredient profile, folate is a B-vitamin essential for DNA synthesis and cell division. However, the data provided primarily covers calcium, not folate, so specific health claims for this product are limited. For calcium, the data indicates it supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of folate as a cellular builder — it helps your body produce and maintain new cells, especially during periods of rapid growth like pregnancy. The Metafolin form is a bioactive version that your body can use directly without needing to convert it. For calcium, which is listed in the data, it acts as a structural supporter for bones and teeth, and it helps muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific side effects for Solgar Folate are not available in the provided data. For calcium, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer, and high levels in the blood can cause constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and poor kidney function [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data on side effects for folate specifically is not available.

Our recommendation

Start with Solgar Folate 400 mcg as directed on the label, which is a standard dietary dose. Since the data does not provide specific studies on this product, consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant or taking medications. For calcium, be cautious with high doses and separate intake from certain medications by at least two hours [NIH ODS]. Choose this supplement if you need a bioactive form of folate, but remember that data on long-term safety and efficacy for this specific product is not available.

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