Why Folate Matters More Than You Think

January is National Birth Defects Awareness Month, and we at EarthFirst believe it is a time dedicated to education, prevention, and support for families at every stage of pregnancy and beyond.  One of the most important conversations during this month centers around a nutrient many women have heard of, but few have had fully explained: vitamin B9.

Vitamin B9 plays a critical role in early development, often before a woman even knows she is pregnant.  This is why it has long been emphasized in prenatal nutrition.  However, not all forms of B9 are the same, and understanding the difference matters.

Folate vs. Folic Acid: What’s the Difference?

Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9.  It is found in whole foods like leafy greens, legumes, and other plant-based sources.  When folate comes from food, the body recognizes it and can use it efficiently.

Folic acid, on the other hand, is the synthetic form of B9.  It is commonly added to conventional prenatals and fortified foods.  While it has been widely recommended for decades, many people are unaware that folic acid must be converted by the body into an active form before it can be used.  

For a significant number of women, that conversion does not happen efficiently.  When this occurs, folic acid may remain unmetabolized, meaning it does not fully support the processes it was intended to help, including healthy methylation and early development.

Why This Matters During Pregnancy

Early pregnancy is a time of rapid growth and development.  Nutrients need to be in a form your body can readily absorb and use.  This is NOT the season for shortcuts or assumptions.

National Birth Defects Awareness Month is not about fear.  It is about informed choices.  It is about giving women clear, honest information so they can make decisions that support their bodies and their babies.

Choosing folate from real food sources is one way to support the body as it was designed to function.

How EarthFirst Organic Prenatal Is Different

Instead of relying on synthetic folic acid, the folate is sourced from whole, plant-based foods. This allows the body to use the nutrient without struggling through unnecessary conversion steps.

Whole food folate works with the body, not against it.  It aligns with a nourishment-first approach that values ingredients the body recognizes and can use efficiently.

A Gentle Reminder for January and Beyond

Birth defects awareness begins with education. It continues with thoughtful, intentional care. Prenatal nutrition is not about perfection, but it is about choosing ingredients that support life in the most natural way possible.

January is a powerful reminder that small, informed decisions can have a lasting impact. Real food matters. The form of nutrients matters. And women deserve clarity when it comes to their health and their babies’ well-being.

What can I do today?

If you are pregnant, planning to be, or simply want to better understand what goes into your prenatal, take time to read labels and ask questions.

Choosing a prenatal made with whole food, plant-based folate is one way to support your body with nutrients it recognizes and can truly use.  

Education is the first step.  Nourishment comes next.