Effect of Folic Acid on Primary Folate Forms in Relation to MTHFR

Effect of Mild Increase in Folic Acid Intake on the Distribution of Folate Forms in Relation to a Common Polymorphism in One Folate Catabolising Enzyme

The common polymorphism in MTHFR gene (C677T) has a significant effect on (6S)-5-CH3-H4folate after folic acid supplementation. For example, post supplementation differences in (6S)-5-CH3-H4folate between CC and TT are above 30%.

The investigators aim to test the effect of low doses of folic acid with or without B6 and B12 on folate forms in relation to polymorphisms in folate catabolising enzymes in elderly people. Our hypothesis is that differences in folate forms after folic acid supplementation might be due to polymorphisms in folate catabolising enzymes. Therefore, folic acid might be retained by people with certain genotypes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Males and females
• Age > 65 years.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Renal dysfunction
• Recent stroke, or coronary event (within the last 3 months)
• Current cancer treatment
• Antifolate (e.g. methotrexate) treatment
• Ileum resection
• Current B-vitamin supplement
• Epilepsy medications
• Megaloblastic anemia or other indications for treatment with high doses of folate or vitamin B12.