Information surrounding folic acid has been undergoing major changes in the last 5-8 years. Folate and folic acid (sometimes given the title B9) have been used in almost every supplement. The difference between folate and folic acid is that folic acid is a synthetic oxidized form of folate.
Recently, a great deal of new research has shown that supplemental folic acid (synthetic, oxidized form) may actually accelerate cognitive decline in some older individuals. Studies have also linked folic acid intake to increased colon and rectal cancers, accelerated cancer growth in some pre-existing cancers, and mothers taking folic acid supplements increase their children’s risk for possibly developing asthma.
Folinic acid, also known as 5-formyl tetrahydrofolate, is an active form in a group of vitamins known as folates. In contrast to folic acid, folinic acid is one of the tetrahydrofolate derivitives found naturally in foods. Folinic acid in the body is easily converted to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), which is the only form of folate that can cross the blood-brain barrier. Folinic acid also promotes higher levels of glutathione and dopamine.
The conversion of folinic acid into 5-MTHF is a simple metabolic reaction that promotes the proper biosynthesis of the monamine neurotransmitters serotonin, epinephrine, and dopamine. This active form of folate participates in re-methylation of the amino acid metabolite homocysteine, creating methionine. S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), the downsream metabolite of methionine, is involved in numerous biochemical methyl donation reactions, including reactions forming monoamine neurotransmitters.
Paying attention to the current studies, and realizing the fact that the active forms of folate are the best to use, Mountain Peak Nutritionals® has begun the exclusive use of folinic acid in all formulas manufactured since January 1, 2014. Our labels will reflect this new change and we are pleased to be the first major supplement company to offer this to you. We appreciate your ongoing trust and support.
And New, Improved Adrenal B Complex ™ ‘ABC’ Formula!
The recent changes in our Adrenal B Complex™ or “ABC” Formula provide added neurotransmitter support for symptoms synonymous with adrenal fatigue. Healthy adrenal function is more effectively created when the integration of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and epinephrine are combined with the known stress-reducing B complex vitamins, amino acids, and appropriate botanical medicines.
While maintaining our energy-optimizing B complex formula, we further focused on strengthening the healthy performance of adrenal function. By adding Ashwagandha and N-acetyl-l-tyrosine to an already potent anti-stress formula, our new Adrenal B Complex™ Formula further reduces and minimizes the effects of stress and fatigue.
Mountain Peak Nutritionals has the philosophy of using the highest quality and most bioavailable raw materials available. For example, N-acetyl-l-tyrosine is used in place of L-tyrosine because L-tyrosine is less stable, is not as biologically active, and is not as water-soluble, which reduces bioavailability. Acetylation increases the stability and solubility of L-tyrosine, which supports brain function by improving the natural synthesis of catecholamines dopamine and norepinephrine.
Adrenal B Complex™ Formula has also added Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera, an adaptogenic botanical that has a 4,000-year history of traditional use and is one of the most revered Ayurvedic herbs. Research indicates Ashwagandha supresses stress-induced increases of dopamine receptors in the corpus striatum of the brain.
