Myths vs facts: Folsäure and Allergie

The claim that folic acid causes or prevents allergies is not supported by strong evidence. Folic acid itself is rarely an allergen; true allergic reactions to folic acid supplements are extremely uncommon and usually due to excipients. Some observational studies have suggested a possible link between high maternal folic acid intake during pregnancy and altered allergy risk in offspring, but results are inconsistent and not conclusive. Current guidelines (e.g., USPSTF 2023) recommend 400–800 µg folic acid daily for all women of childbearing age to prevent neural tube defects, regardless of MTHFR status. There is no evidence that genetic testing for MTHFR variants helps predict or manage allergy risk. Consumers should be cautious of commercial tests claiming to personalize folic acid dosing based on allergy genes. If you suspect a food allergy, consult an allergist rather than relying on DNA or blood tests with unclear clinical utility.