What is the purpose of this test?
The Vitamin B12 and Folate Wellness Blood Test Panelis designed to evaluate levels of Vitamin B12, folate (Vitamin B9), and other important markers related to overall nutritional health and blood function. Vitamin B12 and folate are essential nutrients that help the body make healthy red blood cells, support proper nerve function, and produce DNA. A deficiency in either nutrient can cause symptoms like fatigue, weakness, memory problems, or tingling in the hands and feet. These deficiencies can also lead to certain types of anemia and may increase the risk of heart disease or birth defects if left untreated.
This panel also includes a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP-14) and a Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential Platelets, which help monitor liver and kidney function, blood sugar, electrolyte balance, and blood cell health. These additional tests give a broader view of your overall wellness and can help detect underlying conditions such as infections, inflammation, or organ dysfunction. By combining nutritional and general health markers, this vitamin and folate blood test panel gives both patients and healthcare providers valuable insight into current health status and potential dietary or medical needs.
The Vitamin B12 and Folate Wellness Blood Test Panel includes:
- Vitamin B12: Measures levels of Vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve health, red blood cell production, and brain function. Low B12 may cause fatigue, memory loss, and nerve issues.
- Folate (Folic Acid/Vitamin B9): Assesses folate levels, which help produce DNA and red blood cells. Folate is especially important during pregnancy to prevent birth defects.
- CMP-14 with eGFR: A Comprehensive Metabolic Panel with estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) to evaluate kidney function, liver health, blood sugar, and electrolyte balance.
- CBC with Differential Platelets: Measures different types of blood cells (white cells, red cells, platelets) to detect anemia, infections, inflammation, and immune system disorders.
Who should get this test?
- Individuals with symptoms of Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, such as fatigue, brain fog, or tingling hands/feet
- People following a vegetarian or vegan diet (which may lack B12)
- Those with digestive disorders like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis
- Adults over 50, as B12 absorption decreases with age
- Pregnant or planning-to-be-pregnant individuals who need to monitor folate levels
- Individuals with unexplained anemia or abnormal blood test results
- People managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, or kidney disease
- Anyone interested in a general nutritional wellness screening
When should I order the Vitamin B12 and Folate Wellness Blood Test Panel?
Individuals may consider ordering this test if they have symptoms or exposure concerns related to Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
Symptoms to consider:
- Fatigue, weakness, or low energy
- Memory problems or trouble concentrating
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
- Mood changes, such as depression or irritability
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Mouth sores or a swollen tongue
- Shortness of breath or rapid heartbeat
If you have these symptoms or suspect a deficiency, the Vitamin B12 and Folate Wellness Blood Test Panel can provide useful information to guide you and your doctor in managing your health and improving your nutrient intake.
Sample ReportPreparation:Fasting for at least 12 hours is required. Patient should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection. Must be drawn before Schilling test, transfusions, or B12 therapy is started.
Test Results:
2-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
