Does Tea Affect Folic Acid (Synthetic)?

May affect absorption or how you feel

The short answer

EGCG in tea inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, the enzyme needed to convert synthetic folic acid to its active form.

How to arrange timing

Separate synthetic folic acid from tea by at least 1 hour.

Reference

Reference noted for this food and supplement combination: Examine.com 2024

Important context

The effect can also change with food amount, supplement dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.