Folate
FOL
Description
"Folate" test checks folate levels in your blood, a B vitamin essential for red blood cell formation and nervous system health. Low folate can cause anemia, fatigue, or neurological symptoms, especially during pregnancy or malnutrition. This test is often recommended for people experiencing tiredness, weakness, or difficulty concentrating. A blood sample is analyzed to assess dietary intake and absorption. Results help doctors tailor recommendations such as supplements or dietary changes to restore folate balance and prevent deficiency-related complications.
Category
Vitamins
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum | Red Blood Cells
Units
Nanograms Per Milliliter | Nanomoles Per Liter
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Vitamin Group, Cognitive Health Group, Basic Nutrient Deficiency Group, Complete Nutrient Deficiency Group
Test Group Description
Basic Nutrient Deficiency Group: This group comprises essential tests aimed at assessing key nutrient levels vital for overall health and well-being. Cognitive Health Group: This group of tailored tests is aimed at evaluating cognitive function and assessing markers related to cognitive health, providing valuable insights for cognitive well-being and potential cognitive disorders. Complete Nutrient Deficiency Group: This comprehensive group includes an expanded panel of tests covering a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Vitamin Group: This collection of tests encompasses a range of key vitamins crucial for physiological functions, aiding in nutritional status evaluation and deficiency detection.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: Serum: 13.60–27.00 ng/mL | RBC: 400.00–800.00 ng/mL
SI Unit: Serum: 30.79–61.14 nmol/L | RBC: 908.80–1817.60 nmol/L
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: Serum: 3.00–27.00 ng/mL | RBC: 140.00–628.00 ng/mL
SI Unit: Serum: 6.79–61.14 nmol/L | RBC: 317.92–1426.64 nmol/L
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Pernicious anemia (Vitamin B12 deficiency due to impaired absorption)
Vegetarianism
Decreased levels may indicate:
Alcoholism
Celiac disease (Autoimmune disorder affecting the small intestine)
Chemotherapy (Cancer treatment using cytotoxic drugs)
Chronic hemolysis (Excessive breakdown of red blood cells)
Contraception pills
Crohn's disease (Inflammatory bowel disease)
Dialysis (Treatment for kidney failure)
Hypothyroidism (Underactive thyroid gland)
Inadequate dietary intake
Leukemia (Cancer of the blood-forming tissues)
Pregnancy
Smoking
Key Reasons For Testing
Nutritional Status: Folate testing evaluates dietary intake and absorption from food or supplements.
Diagnosis of Deficiency: Identifies folate deficiency due to poor diet, malabsorption, or increased needs (e.g., pregnancy).
High-Risk Screening: Recommended for groups like pregnant women or individuals with chronic illness or alcoholism.
Neural Tube Defects Prevention: Assesses folate in women of childbearing age to guide supplementation.
Therapy Monitoring: Tracks response to folate therapy.
Cardiovascular Risk: Elevated homocysteine linked to folate deficiency warrants testing.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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