From the FDA Drug Label
Normal serum levels of total folate have been reported to be 5 to 15 ng/mL; The optimal serum folate level in men is between 5 to 15 ng/mL.
- Levels below 5 ng/mL indicate folate deficiency, and levels below 2 ng/mL usually result in megaloblastic anemia 1
From the Research
The optimal serum folate level for men is generally between 2.7 and 17.0 ng/mL (6-40 nmol/L), with most experts recommending maintaining levels in the middle to upper portion of this range for optimal health. Adult men should consume 400 micrograms of dietary folate equivalents (DFE) daily through diet or supplementation to maintain these levels. Good dietary sources include leafy green vegetables, legumes, fortified grains, and citrus fruits. For men with certain conditions like alcoholism, malabsorption disorders, or those taking medications that interfere with folate metabolism (such as methotrexate, phenytoin, or trimethoprim), higher intake may be necessary. Folate is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and amino acid metabolism, making it crucial for overall health. Adequate folate levels help prevent megaloblastic anemia, support cardiovascular health by regulating homocysteine levels, and may play a role in cognitive function. Men planning to father children should be particularly attentive to folate status, as it contributes to healthy sperm production and may influence epigenetic factors passed to offspring.
Key Considerations
- The relationship between serum folate levels and health outcomes in men is complex, and recent studies have shed light on the importance of considering vitamin B12 status in conjunction with folate levels 2, 3, 4.
- High folate levels in the presence of low vitamin B12 status may lead to depletion of active vitamin B12 in the circulation, potentially exacerbating vitamin B12 deficiency 4.
- The optimal serum folate level for men may need to be reevaluated in the context of vitamin B12 status, with consideration given to the potential risks of high folic acid intake in individuals with low vitamin B12 status 3, 4.
- Dietary sources of folate, including fortified cereals, leafy green vegetables, and legumes, can provide adequate intake for most men, but supplementation may be necessary for individuals with certain medical conditions or dietary restrictions 5, 6.
Recommendations
- Adult men should aim to consume 400 micrograms of dietary folate equivalents (DFE) daily through diet or supplementation.
- Men with certain medical conditions, such as alcoholism or malabsorption disorders, may require higher intake of folate.
- Vitamin B12 status should be considered in conjunction with folate levels, particularly in individuals with low vitamin B12 status or those taking medications that interfere with folate metabolism.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between serum folate levels, vitamin B12 status, and health outcomes in men, as the current evidence is limited and sometimes conflicting 2, 3, 4.