Experiencing anemia, planning pregnancy, or fatigue and want assessment of folate levels for optimal blood health and cellular function?
The Vitamin B9 (Folate) Blood Test measures levels of folate, a B-vitamin that helps make red blood cells and supports DNA and cell growth. Low folate can cause anaemia, fatigue, and in pregnancy increase the risk of birth defects, while healthy levels support energy, metabolism, and overall wellbeing.
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The Vitamin B9 (Folate) Blood Test measures levels of folate, a B-vitamin that helps make red blood cells and supports DNA and cell growth. Low folate can cause anaemia, fatigue, and in pregnancy increase the risk of birth defects, while healthy levels support energy, metabolism, and overall wellbeing.
Think of folate (Vitamin B9) as your body's master construction worker – it's constantly busy building new cells, crafting healthy red blood cells, and ensuring your DNA gets assembled correctly. This essential vitamin is particularly crucial during pregnancy, acting like a protective shield for developing babies by preventing serious birth defects. The Vitamin B9 test measures how much of this vital nutrient is circulating in your blood, giving you a clear picture of whether your body has enough fuel to keep these critical processes running smoothly.
When your folate levels drop too low, it's like having a construction site without enough skilled workers – things start to go wrong. You might develop a specific type of anemia that leaves you feeling exhausted and weak, or if you're pregnant, your baby could face increased risks of neural tube defects. This test is especially valuable for women planning pregnancy, people experiencing unexplained fatigue or weakness, those with dietary restrictions, or anyone whose doctor suspects their tiredness might stem from a vitamin deficiency rather than just being "run down."
You may benefit from the Vitamin B9 (Folate) Blood Test
Essential for individuals with anemia, pregnancy concerns, fatigue symptoms, or anyone needing comprehensive folate and vitamin B assessment.
Feeling tired all the time
Problems with short-term memory
Feeling sad or down most of the time
Planning pregnancy in next 6 months
Currently pregnant (any trimester)
Recurrent pregnancy loss
How to prepare
No special preparation required. Inform healthcare provider of folate supplements, medications, and any factors that might affect folate levels or interpretation.
Understanding results
Results show folate levels compared to normal ranges. Low levels may indicate folate deficiency requiring supplementation and dietary modifications.
After the test
Address folate deficiency through folate supplementation, dietary modifications to include folate-rich foods, and treatment of underlying causes. Work with hematologists for complex cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Folate (vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and neural tube development during pregnancy.
Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, irritability, and in severe cases, megaloblastic anemia.
Causes include inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption disorders, increased requirements (pregnancy), certain medications, and alcohol abuse.
Treatment typically includes folate supplements, dietary modifications to include folate-rich foods, and addressing underlying causes.
Good sources include leafy greens, legumes, fortified cereals, citrus fruits, and liver.
Adequate folate prevents neural tube defects and supports proper fetal development, making supplementation crucial before and during pregnancy.
Reviewed by Dr. Vu Tran Bloody Good’s Chief Medical Officer
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