Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Quatrefolic is the glucosamine salt form of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), the active form of folate that bypasses genetic mutations in folate metabolism. It directly supports methylation processes, neurotransmitter synthesis, and homocysteine metabolism without requiring enzymatic conversion.
CategoryBranded Ingredient
GroupOther
Evidence LevelStrong
Primary KeywordQuatrefolic benefits
Synergy Pairings5
Health Benefits
Supports mental health by enhancing neurotransmitter synthesis, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression. This is crucial for emotional well-being. - Enhances cardiovascular health by lowering homocysteine levels, reducing the risk of heart disease by up to 20%. This supports a healthy heart and circulatory system. - Boosts energy levels by improving cellular metabolism, leading to increased vitality and reduced fatigue. This is essential for an active lifestyle. - Supports fetal development by providing bioavailable folate, crucial for preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy. This is vital for maternal and fetal health. - Improves cognitive function by supporting brain health, which can enhance memory and focus. This is important for maintaining mental acuity. - Promotes healthy aging by supporting DNA synthesis and repair, which can reduce the risk of age-related diseases. - Enhances detoxification by supporting liver function, aiding in the removal of toxins from the body.
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Quatrefolic is a patented form of folate, specifically 5-MTHF, which is the active form of folic acid, designed for improved absorption and bioavailability.
“Folate has been a crucial nutrient historically, with its importance recognized in preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Studies have shown that Quatrefolic is more bioavailable than traditional folic acid, supporting its use in folate supplementation, especially for those with MTHFR mutations.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
Typical dosage ranges from 400 to 800 mcg per day. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Nutritional Profile
Quatrefolic (5-MTHF Glucosamine Salt) is a patented, fourth-generation folate compound consisting of the glucosamine salt of (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate, the biologically active form of folate. It is not a macronutrient source and contains negligible calories, fat, protein, or carbohydrates at supplemental doses. Primary bioactive compound: (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), the reduced, metabolically active form of vitamin B9/folate, typically standardized to provide 400–1000 mcg of 5-MTHF per dose in commercial supplements. Unlike synthetic folic acid, 5-MTHF requires no hepatic conversion via dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), making it immediately bioavailable regardless of MTHFR gene polymorphisms (C677T, A1298C), which affect approximately 40–60% of the global population. The glucosamine salt carrier enhances water solubility, stability across a pH range of 3–7, and gastrointestinal absorption compared to calcium salt forms of 5-MTHF. Bioavailability is estimated at approximately 1.7–2x greater than folic acid in individuals with MTHFR polymorphisms. It provides no meaningful dietary fiber, minerals, or fat-soluble vitamins. Trace amounts of glucosamine are present as the counterion but at sub-therapeutic levels (well below the 1500 mg/day used in joint health studies). No significant vitamin or mineral co-factors are intrinsic to the compound itself.
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Quatrefolic delivers 5-methyltetrahydrofolate directly to cellular methylation cycles, bypassing the MTHFR enzyme that converts folic acid to its active form. It serves as a methyl donor in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine and supports the synthesis of neurotransmitters including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine through the methylation of tetrahydrobiopterin.
Clinical Evidence
Clinical trials with 5-MTHF supplementation show significant improvements in depression scores, with doses of 15mg daily demonstrating efficacy as adjunctive therapy in treatment-resistant depression. Cardiovascular studies indicate that 5-MTHF supplementation can reduce homocysteine levels by 13-20% within 8-12 weeks. The glucosamine salt form (Quatrefolic) shows superior stability and bioavailability compared to calcium salt forms in pharmacokinetic studies.
Safety & Interactions
Quatrefolic is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects, though some individuals may experience initial mood changes or sleep disturbances as neurotransmitter levels adjust. It may interact with antifolate medications like methotrexate and could potentially mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms. Pregnant women should consult healthcare providers before supplementation, though folate is essential during pregnancy. Individuals with bipolar disorder should use caution as folate supplementation may trigger manic episodes.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Also Known As
(6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine salt5-MTHF glucosamine saltL-5-MTHF glucosamine saltMethylfolate glucosamineActive folateBioactive folic acidLevomefolic acid glucosamine
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Quatrefolic different from regular folic acid?
Quatrefolic provides 5-MTHF, the active form of folate that doesn't require conversion by the MTHFR enzyme. This makes it effective for the 40% of people with MTHFR genetic variants who cannot efficiently process folic acid.
How much Quatrefolic should I take daily?
Typical dosages range from 400mcg to 15mg daily depending on the intended use. For general health, 400-800mcg is common, while therapeutic applications for mood support may use 5-15mg under medical supervision.
Can Quatrefolic help with depression?
Clinical studies show 5-MTHF can improve depression symptoms, particularly as adjunctive therapy with antidepressants. It works by supporting neurotransmitter synthesis and may be especially beneficial for those with folate deficiency or MTHFR mutations.
Is Quatrefolic safe to take with medications?
Quatrefolic may interact with antifolate drugs like methotrexate and could affect the metabolism of certain antidepressants. Always consult your healthcare provider before combining it with prescription medications, especially psychiatric drugs.
How long does it take for Quatrefolic to work?
Homocysteine levels typically improve within 4-8 weeks of consistent use. For mood-related benefits, some people notice changes within 2-4 weeks, though full effects may take 8-12 weeks as neurotransmitter levels stabilize.
Is Quatrefolic safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Quatrefolic is a methylated form of folate that is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as it supports fetal neural development and reduces birth defect risk. However, pregnant and nursing women should consult their healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage, as requirements may differ from non-pregnant individuals. The glucosamine salt form enhances bioavailability, making it an effective choice for prenatal supplementation when recommended by a doctor.
What is the difference between Quatrefolic and other methylfolate supplements?
Quatrefolic is a patented, stabilized form of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) bound to glucosamine, which enhances stability and bioavailability compared to unbound methylfolate forms. This glucosamine salt formulation allows for better absorption and longer shelf stability, making it more effective at lower doses than some competing methylfolate products. Quatrefolic is also clinically studied and recognized as one of the most bioavailable folate forms available on the market.
Who benefits most from taking Quatrefolic supplementation?
Individuals with MTHFR gene mutations, those with elevated homocysteine levels, and people struggling with mood disorders or depression often benefit most from Quatrefolic supplementation. Additionally, those with poor folate absorption, vegans/vegetarians with limited dietary folate sources, and individuals taking medications that deplete folate stores are good candidates for supplementation. Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy also benefit significantly due to the critical role of folate in fetal development.
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