Vitamin B9

What is vitamin B9?

Updated 9 Nov 2026

Short answer

Vitamin B9 is folate, a B vitamin that the body needs to make DNA and for cells to divide.[1] Food contains natural folates. Fortified foods and most supplements contain folic acid, and some supplements contain 5-MTHF, also called L-methylfolate.[1] Spinach, liver, asparagus and Brussels sprouts are among the richest foods.[1]

Sources (1)

  1. Folate: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. ods.od.nih.gov

More about vitamin b9

Which foods contain folate?What is vitamin B9 used for?Who is likely to be low in folate?Is vitamin B9 safe?How long does folic acid take to raise folate levels?Does folic acid before pregnancy prevent birth defects?

For education; not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before you start, stop or change a supplement.