Doctor's Best Fully Active Folate 800 with Quatrefolic 800 mcg
Brand: Doctor's Best · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Doctor's Best Fully Active Folate 800 with Quatrefolic provides 800 mcg of folate, which is a crucial B vitamin. Our assessment is that this supplement is designed to support healthy cell division and red blood cell formation, particularly for individuals who have difficulty converting standard folic acid into its active form. However, we must note that the specific data provided on the active ingredient, Quatrefolic, is not available, and the bulk of the supporting evidence here relates to the mineral calcium, not folate [Data not available].
How it works
Folate, in its active form, acts as a methyl donor in your body. This means it helps convert homocysteine into methionine, a process vital for DNA synthesis and repair. This mechanism directly supports the production of new cells, including red blood cells, and is particularly important during periods of rapid growth like pregnancy [NIH ODS]. The Quatrefolic brand is a form of (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid, which is the active form your body can use immediately without needing to convert it, bypassing a common genetic limitation in the MTHFR enzyme [Data not available].
Safety profile
Data not available on specific side effects for this exact product. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all dietary supplements, but specific report counts for this product are not provided [FDA data]. As a general safety note, high levels of folate from supplements can mask a vitamin B12 deficiency, which is a risk particularly for older adults. Always consult your doctor before starting a new supplement, especially if you are taking other medications [Data not available].
Our recommendation
If you are looking for a folate supplement because you have a known MTHFR gene mutation or have been advised by your doctor to take an active form of folate, then this product is a reasonable choice. The 800 mcg dose is within a safe and common range. However, for most people, standard folic acid from a balanced diet or a standard multivitamin is sufficient. Our recommendation is to only use this specific supplement under the guidance of a healthcare professional who has confirmed your need for the active form of folate [Data not available].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Doctor's Best |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Veggie Cap(s) |
| Market Status | Off 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