About this episode
In this supplement spotlight episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, you will learn why folate is one of the most essential nutrients for women with PCOS—especially when it comes to hormone balance, mood support, and fertility. Whether you're preparing for pregnancy, currently expecting, or simply aiming to improve your hormone health, this episode breaks down everything you need to know about folate, including how it works in the body and why not all forms of folate are beneficial. Folate’s Role in Fertility, Hormone Balance, and Methylation You will discover how folate, also known as vitamin B9, supports healthy ovulation, egg quality, and early fetal development, making it a critical nutrient before and during pregnancy. Beyond fertility, folate plays a key role in DNA synthesis, cell repair, red blood cell production, and hormone metabolism. You’ll also learn how it helps reduce elevated homocysteine levels, which are often linked to inflammation and miscarriage risk in women with PCOS. Why the Form of Folate Matters: Folic Acid vs. L-Methylfolate In this episode, you’ll explore the common MTHFR gene mutation that affects up to 60% of women and learn why folic acid, the synthetic form found in most prenatal vitamins, may not be effective for many individuals. You’ll discover why L-methylfolate or 5-MTHF is the preferred and most bioavailable form, especially for those with MTHFR mutations, and how unmetabolized folic acid can actually increase hormone imbalances, fatigue, and inflammation. How to Choose a Quality Folate Supplement You’ll gain practical guidance on how to read supplement labels, which forms of folate to look for, and what to avoid. This episode breaks down recommended dosages and explains why methylated B-complex or prenatal formulas that include B6, B12, and L-methylfolate are often the most effective. You’ll also get tips on how to identify reputable brands and ensure your supplements are third-party tested for safety and effectiveness. Final Thoughts on Folate and PCOS This episode wraps up by emphasizing that folate is not just a fertility supplement, it’s a foundational nutrient that supports many aspects of PCOS healing. You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of why folate matters, how to choose the right form and dose, and how to integrate it into your holistic hormone health plan. Be sure to check out the free PCOS Supplement Guide linked in the show notes and consult your healthcare provider for personalized support. You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here PCOS Supplement Guide Let’s continue the conversation on Instagram! What did you find helpful in this episode and what follow-up questions do you have? The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the E pisode webpage at: https://nourishedtohealthy.com/ep-176