Abstract
This scoping review examines the risks of high folic acid supplementation in expectant mothers, particularly those with the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T gene polymorphism. While folic acid is essential for DNA synthesis and preventing neural tube defects, excessive intake may pose health risks, especially for individuals with the MTHFR variant. These individuals have a reduced ability to process folic acid, leading to the accumulation of unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA), which is associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, cognitive and psychiatric issues, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. This review emphasizes the importance of monitoring folic acid intake and explores alternative supplements such as 5-MTHF or 5-FTHF, which may mitigate these risks by bypassing MTHFR conversion. Personalized nutrition, considering genetic variations, is crucial for optimizing health and minimizing potential harm.