Folate
Also written as: Vitamin B9, Folic acid, Serum folate
A B vitamin needed to make red blood cells and DNA, mostly reflecting recent dietary intake.
What it measures
The concentration of folate, a B vitamin also called vitamin B9, in the liquid part of the blood. A serum folate mainly reflects recent intake rather than long-term body stores.
Why a doctor orders it
Commonly ordered together with vitamin B12 when anemia, fatigue, or certain nerve symptoms are being investigated, because the two vitamins work together in making red blood cells. It may also be checked around pregnancy planning.
What is generally associated with a higher result
Broadly associated with supplement use and fortified foods such as cereals and breads. High values are generally not pursued.
What is generally associated with a lower result
Broadly associated with low dietary intake, alcohol use, gut conditions that reduce absorption, and certain common medicines. Levels can dip after only a few weeks of reduced intake, because the body's folate stores are small.
Everyday things that move this number
Not every shift in a value reflects disease. These are ordinary factors known to affect this particular measurement:
- Recent meals - a folate-rich meal shortly before the draw can shift a serum level
- Multivitamins and fortified cereals or breads
- Alcohol intake in the days before the draw
- Pregnancy, which increases folate requirements
- Sample handling, since folate breaks down if the sample sits too long before processing
Questions to take to your appointment
- Should vitamin B12 be checked at the same time?
- Was this a serum folate or a red cell folate, and what is the difference?
- Could any of my regular medicines affect folate levels?
Build a printable questionnaire with your own results →
Where to read more
MedlinePlus, from the US National Library of Medicine, publishes patient-facing pages on individual lab tests and is a reliable next stop: medlineplus.gov/lab-tests .
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