BLOOD TESTING
Vitamin B12 and Folate Testing
What is Vitamin B12 and Folate?
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin essential for several important functions in the body. It helps to produce red blood cells, support nerve function, and is involved in DNA synthesis.
Folate, also known as Vitamin B9, is another water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical tole in the formation of red blood cells and cell growth. Found in foods such as leafy green vegetables, fruits and beans.
Why is Vitamin B12 and Folate important?
Vitamin B12 and Folate are both involved in red blood cell production and nervous system health. A deficiency in either can lead to:
- Anaemia
- Fatigue and Weakness
- Nerve Damage
- Cognitive Issues
- Increased risk of birth defects
Who is at Risk for Deficiency
You may be at higher risk for Vitamin B12 or Folate deficiency if you:
- Follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have digestive disorders such as Celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Are older, as the body's ability to absorb B12 from food decreases with age
- Have had gastrointestinal surgery
- Take medications that interfere with nutrient absorption, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), metformin, or certain antacids
- Have a history of alcoholism
What is Vitamin B12 and Folate Testing?
- Vitamin B12 test: This test measures the amount of vitamin B12 in your blood. It helps determine if you have a deficiency or excess of this vitamin.
- Folate test: This test measures the amount of folate (vitamin B9) in your blood. It is used to assess whether you are getting enough folate in your diet or if a deficiency is affecting your health.
What to Expect During the Test
Both vitamin B12 and folate testing are simple blood tests. A healthcare provider will take a sample of blood from a vein in your arm. In some cases, your healthcare provider may ask you to fast before the test, though this is typically not necessary for these specific tests.
The test takes only a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities immediately after the sample is taken.
Treatment
If your test results show that you are deficient in either Vitamin B12 or Folate, treatment options include:
- Dietary Changes: each foods rich in vitamin b12 (meat, fish, eggs)
- Vitamin Supplements: your healthcare provider may recommend oral vitamin B12 or folate supplements to boost your levels
- Injections: for individuals with severe vitamin B12 deficiency or those who cannot absorb the vitamin through food or oral consumption, a vitamin B12 injection may be advised
- Folic Acid Supplements: if you have low folate levels, folic acid supplements can be prescribed to raise your folic levels
