Many new prenatal vitamins have entered the market which have methylated folate instead of folic acid. Methylated folate is a downstream metabolite of folic acid. Although some people may have difficulty metabolizing folic acid (associated with a genetic mutation, MTHFR), it is very important to realize that only folic acid has been shown to prevent NTD (neural tube defects). Although methylated folate has been shown to result in sufficient blood folate levels, no study exists proving that methylated folate prevents neural tube defects or compares methylated folate vs folic acid. No study like this will ever exist because when something clearly prevents a bad outcome, like a birth defect, you would never allow a group of pregnant people to be at risk for this outcome when you could prevent it. I recommend you take at least 400 mcg of folic acid, in the form of folic acid. If you love a prenatal that has methylated folate, take an additional folic acid supplement. Methylated folate may help a small group of people who have problems metabolizing folic acid when they are not pregnant, but if you are trying to conceive, I recommend adding folic acid as well.

These nutrients are generally safe and well-tolerated at the listed doses.

When you’re trying to conceive, every piece of your health puzzle matters. That includes your environment, nutrition, sleep, and stress. While supplements can be powerful tools, true fertility support begins with how you live each day.

Let’s start with environmental exposures. Endocrine disruptors like BPA, phthalates, and PFCs are common in plastics, food packaging, cosmetics, and even receipts. These chemicals can interfere with hormone function, egg quality, and embryo development. Easy swaps include avoiding microwaving food in plastic, switching to glass or stainless steel containers, limiting processed foods, and choosing fragrance-free personal care products.

Nutrition is a cornerstone. A whole food, mostly plant based diet rich in fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants supports hormone balance and egg health. Limit refined sugar, soda, and processed carbohydrates as these increase insulin resistance and inflammation. Choose complex carbs like quinoa or steel cut oats, add legumes and leafy greens, and prioritize healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and olive oil. If you eat animal protein, choose organic and focus more on plant based sources.

Omega 3 fatty acids found in flax, chia, walnuts, and fish oil offer anti inflammatory benefits and support reproductive hormones. If eating fish, limit to two or three servings per week due to mercury exposure.

Sleep and stress matter too. Poor sleep can disrupt circadian rhythms and hormone regulation. Aim for seven to nine hours per night and keep a consistent sleep schedule. Prioritize stress management, whether through movement, meditation, or talking with a therapist. Your nervous system plays a key role in hormone signaling.

Finally, movement is essential. Regular, moderate exercise improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and supports mental well being. Think daily walks, gentle strength training, or yoga. Overexercising or intense restriction can work against your hormones, so find balance.

You can’t control everything, but focusing on these key lifestyle factors helps create the healthiest foundation for conception.