A folate blood test can identify a deficiency or high levels of vitamin B9, which can lead to anemia and complications during pregnancy. Managing folate levels is essential to prevent serious health problems.
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the body to function properly. It plays a crucial role in:
For pregnant women, folate is vital for healthy fetal development, including the prevention of neural tube defects.
Since the body cannot produce folate, it must be supplied through food or supplements. Folate deficiency can lead to health problems, such as certain types of anemia and complications during pregnancy.
A folate test is generally recommended to check for a possible deficiency or to monitor certain disorders. It helps diagnose the underlying causes of various symptoms and imbalances related to folate.
Your doctor may recommend a folate test in the following cases:
Folate levels are mostly measured by a blood test. A venous blood sample is taken to assess the amount of folate in serum or red blood cells.
In some cases, folate levels can also be measured in the urine, but blood tests are still the most common.
Types of tests that measure folate:
Preparations for the test:
In adults, normal folate levels are generally between 12.46 and 61.18 nmol/L.
Note : The units of measurement and the normal ranges may vary depending on the laboratory and the methods used.
High folate levels
High folate levels are generally less common.
Causes of high levels:
Recommendations:
Low folate levels
Low folate levels are more common and can cause complications such as anemia or pregnancy-related problems.
Causes of low levels:
Recommendations:
If you have concerns about your folate levels or associated health conditions, consider seeing the following specialists:
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