Quatrefolic is a patented, crystalline form of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) — the biologically active form of folate that your body can use immediately, bypassing the MTHFR enzyme conversion step that is impaired in approximately 40% of the population.
Why Quatrefolic Exists
Standard folic acid supplements must be converted through several enzymatic steps — the final and rate-limiting step catalyzed by the MTHFR enzyme — to reach the 5-MTHF form the body actually uses. Quatrefolic provides this end-product directly as a glucosamine salt of 5-MTHF, which offers superior stability compared to the calcium salt form (Metafolin) and consistent bioavailability regardless of individual MTHFR genetic status. Essentially-U uses Quatrefolic as its folate source.
Clinical Relevance
For the ~40% of people carrying MTHFR C677T or A1298C variants, folic acid may not adequately raise functional folate status — and unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA) may accumulate. Quatrefolic eliminates this concern entirely: it provides the already-converted, bioactive form. This is particularly critical for women of childbearing age (folate prevents neural tube defects), people with elevated homocysteine (folate is required for homocysteine metabolism), and anyone with methylation-dependent conditions (mood disorders, cardiovascular risk, detoxification challenges).
For people with MTHFR variants (about 40% of the population), Quatrefolic is significantly more effective because it bypasses the impaired conversion step. For people without MTHFR variants, it provides a bioavailability advantage and eliminates the concern of UMFA accumulation.
Do I need to know my MTHFR status to benefit?
No — Quatrefolic works optimally regardless of your genetic status. Using it preemptively means you don't need to test for MTHFR to ensure adequate functional folate levels.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
