When looking at children’s nutrition, one nutrient that often doesn’t get enough attention is folate. While most people are familiar with folic acid, a synthetic form of folate, fewer know about leucovorin—also known as folinic acid. This form of folate is active, bioavailable, and clinically important. At I’m Nutrients, we’ve chosen to include folinic acid in our Fussy Essentials Multi because it’s gentler, better utilised, and evidence-backed.
What is Leucovorin (Folinic Acid)?
Leucovorin (also called 5-formyl tetrahydrofolate) is a reduced form of folate, meaning it bypasses several steps of folic acid metabolism. Unlike folic acid, which requires conversion in the body via the MTHFR enzyme, folinic acid is ready to be used in cellular pathways.
Key benefits of folinic acid include:
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Better bioavailability – it doesn’t rely on the MTHFR gene, which up to 40% of the population may have variants in, limiting their ability to activate folic acid.
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Gentle on the body – less likelihood of unmetabolised folic acid accumulating in the bloodstream.
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Supports DNA, methylation, and neurotransmitter production – crucial for growth, development, and cognitive function.
Research Behind Leucovorin
Leucovorin has been studied extensively in both clinical medicine and nutritional science:
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Neurological support: Folinic acid has been used in research relating to cerebral folate deficiency and neurodevelopmental conditions, with evidence showing it can help restore cerebrospinal fluid folate levels.
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Genetic considerations: Individuals with MTHFR polymorphisms (common genetic variations) may not efficiently convert folic acid into active folate. Studies suggest folinic acid is a more reliable source in these populations.
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Cellular health: As a direct folate donor, folinic acid participates in one-carbon metabolism, which is essential for DNA repair, red blood cell formation, and immune resilience.
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Clinical medicine: In hospitals, leucovorin is sometimes used alongside medications like methotrexate to “rescue” healthy cells—highlighting its therapeutic importance.
This body of research makes folinic acid one of the most trusted and effective folate forms for supplementation.
Why I’m Nutrients Uses Folinic Acid in Fussy Essentials
At I’m Nutrients, we believe children deserve the best quality nutrients in the right forms. That’s why our Fussy Essentials Daily Multi uses folinic acid (leucovorin) instead of standard folic acid.
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✅ Highly bioavailable – ensuring kids get the full benefit without relying on genetic conversion pathways.
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✅ Neurodevelopment support – providing the folate form most relevant to brain growth, focus, and learning.
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✅ Gentle and safe – no build-up of synthetic folic acid.
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✅ Aligned with evidence – chosen because clinical science backs its efficacy and importance.
In a market filled with “glorified lollies” that often cut corners on nutrient forms, I’m Nutrients stands apart by using premium, evidence-based ingredients like folinic acid.
Final Thoughts
Leucovorin (folinic acid) is more than just another vitamin form—it’s a clinically recognised, bioavailable nutrient that supports children where they need it most: in growth, brain function, and overall health. By including folinic acid in our Fussy Essentials Multi, I’m Nutrients ensures families have access to a supplement that works smarter, not harder.
If you’re looking for a clean-label, science-driven children’s multivitamin, Fussy Essentials is carefully formulated with active forms of B vitamins like folinic acid—so your kids can thrive every day.