Folate blood tests are carried out to check for folic acid deficiency. Folic acid, a B vitamin, performs several important functions in the body; helping form red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, producing DNA that stores genetic codes and keeps the nervous system healthy.
A deficiency in either B12 or folate can cause a range of health problems, including; extreme fatigue, a lack of energy, pins and needles (paraesthesia), a sore and red tongue, mouth ulcers, weak muscles, problems with vision, psychological problems such as depression and confusion, problems with memory, understanding and judgement.
It is important for B12 or folate anaemia to be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible, however, some of these problems can also happen if you have a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate but do not have anaemia.
These conditions can often be diagnosed based on your symptoms and the results of a blood test. If you have concerns that you might be deficient you should speak to a GP.
In pregnancy, taking the right amount of folic acid before and during pregnancy helps ensure normal development of the fetus and prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
For those following a vegan diet, who do not take B12 supplements or eat foods rich in B12, or for those with a generally poor diet, B12 deficiency can present itself. As well to doctors, some nutritionists might also request blood tests are carried out to monitor levels of B12 and folate.
At Bodyvie our doctors and phlebotomists carry out same-day blood tests, to provide fast and accurate results to aid diagnosis and ongoing medical care. A small tube of blood is collected, via venipuncture and sent to the Bodyvie processing lab, The Doctors Laboratory.
