A B vitamin essential for cell division, red blood cells, and pregnancy.
Vitamin B9, known as folate, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for making DNA, dividing cells, and forming healthy red blood cells. The synthetic form added to supplements and fortified foods is called folic acid.
This test usually measures serum folate, which reflects recent intake. Red blood cell folate, measured separately, reflects longer-term status.
Folate is vital for cell division and red blood cell formation, and it helps keep homocysteine in a healthy range. Low folate can cause megaloblastic anaemia and, in early pregnancy, raises the risk of neural tube defects in the baby.
Testing helps explain anaemia or raised homocysteine and confirms adequate status before and during pregnancy. Folate should be interpreted together with vitamin B12, since the two are closely linked.
Aniva reads your result against research-backed ranges, not just the lab's wide normal. The reference shown below is specific to this biomarker.
This measures serum folate. Ranges are guidance and vary by laboratory and method.
| Status | Serum folate |
|---|---|
| Deficiency | Below 6.8 nmol/L |
| Possible deficiency | 6.8 to 13.4 nmol/L |
| Normal | Above 13.4 nmol/L |
For people planning pregnancy, the WHO suggests a serum folate of at least 25.5 nmol/L. Confirm the exact interval with the reporting laboratory.
You learn whether your folate level is low, adequate, or high. A low result can point to inadequate intake or absorption and is a common cause of a particular type of anaemia. For anyone planning pregnancy, adequate folate is especially important.
Serum folate reflects recent intake and can rise after a folate-rich meal, so it can fluctuate day to day. Recent supplementation raises levels. Folate should always be read with B12, because treating folate alone can mask a B12 deficiency.
Read alongside vitamin B12, homocysteine, and a full blood count, since folate and B12 deficiency can look similar.
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