Pregnancy capsules or gummies: which format should you choose for your B9?

Vitamin B9, also known as folates (natural form) or folic acid (synthetic form), contributes to the growth of maternal tissues (including the uterus and placenta) and plays a strategic role in the prevention of neural tube defects (NTD) in the foetus. These malformations develop very early, from the third and fourth week post-conception, often before pregnancy is even confirmed. This is why health authorities recommend starting supplementation as soon as pregnancy is planned, ideally four weeks before conception, and continuing until at least eight weeks after [1].

Beyond the neural tube and maternal tissues, B9 is essential for blood formation, supporting healthy circulation to the foetus. Furthermore, folates contribute to the normal functioning of the immune system in pregnant women and to the production of new cells in the foetus.

The requirements for a pregnant woman are 600 micrograms (µg) per day [2], which is more than double the requirements of a non-pregnant adult. This precise dose, validated by French and international official bodies, ensures optimal foetal development without the risk of overdose, although this risk is minimal.

Not all forms of vitamin B9 are equal! Thestandard folic acid, as most commonly prescribed, is a synthetic form that must be converted by the body into its active form: 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). The problem: studies estimate that 55% of the European population carries at least one mutation of the MTHFR gene [3] (677C>T or 1298A>C), the direct consequence of which is a reduced conversion capacity. For women with this mutation, standard folic acid is therefore partially unusable.

Folates in methylated form, such as 5-MTHF, are directly active and bioavailable by all women, without requiring any conversion. Furthermore, several studies show that 5-MTHF raises blood folate levels more rapidly and more effectively than an equivalent dose of folic acid [4]. This form also crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily, including that of the foetus. If you wish to take the best pregnancy food supplement, choose this methylated form. 

Both B9 formats have their own characteristics and advantages. The choice therefore depends on your preferences and what you are looking for in terms of your supplementation.

• Gummies offer a pleasant and enjoyable experience. Their soft texture and fruity flavour can turn the daily intake into a pleasurable moment rather than a chore. This is a particularly appreciated option for expectant mothers who struggle to swallow capsules or who are looking for a less "medicalised" approach to their supplementation. To achieve the characteristic texture and flavour of gummies, additional ingredients are generally added, such as natural sugars or gelling agents.
• Capsules favour a more streamlined approach, focused on the active ingredient. Their minimalist formulation limits unnecessary excipients and allows for a very precise dosage, calibrated to scientific recommendations. Vitamin B9 capsules fit easily into a morning routine, with a simple glass of water. For many women who are mindful of their health and that of their baby, this product fits more naturally into a targeted health approach.

You may already know our Lemon Folates gummies, which have supported thousands of women through conception and pregnancy thanks to their natural vitamin B9, in methylated form, and their indulgent strawberry-lemon flavour. This much-loved product embodies our commitment to offering future mothers superior-quality folates that are perfectly absorbed by the body.

Today, we are taking a new step forward with Folates Mama, our vitamin B9 capsules. This development reflects our desire to align with the official recommendations of health authorities. We chose a dosage of 400 µg, which is the precise daily supplementation dose recommended for all women trying to conceive and in early pregnancy. We also use the patented, methylated form Quatrefolic® for optimal absorption. 

This new product retains everything that defines our DNA: a patented methylated form of folate (5-MTHF), whose efficacy is recognised by science [5]. The aim: to ensure maximum absorption for all women, including those carrying the MTHFR mutation. Unlike the gummies, Folates Mama offers a more straightforward format, aimed primarily at women who are mindful of taking care of their health.

Did you love Lemon Folates? You're going to adore Folates Mama ! Fully aligned with the medically recommended dosages set by health authorities, with a clean formulation and simple daily routine, Folates Mama will be your best everyday companion, whether you are in the conception phase or in early pregnancy!

Whatever the format, bear in mind that the most important thing is to choosing a high-quality supplement, favouring folates in methylated form, to ensure your body can make full use of them. Whatever the format, the important thing is to start supplementing from the moment you begin planning a pregnancy, in order to give the foetus the best possible conditions for development from the very first weeks.

Discover Folates Mama, available at the end of January 2026 on our website, for a calm and supported pregnancy, backed by science and designed to meet your specific needs!