Folic acid (vitamin B11 in the Netherlands, B9 internationally) is essential for cell growth, DNA production, and blood formation. A test gives insight into your folate status, with personal explanation from our doctors.
Interpreted by BIG-registered doctors
Achtergrond
Folic acid is a water-soluble B vitamin needed by the body for DNA production and cell division. It is therefore especially important in rapidly growing tissue, for example during pregnancy and in the production of red blood cells. In the Netherlands it is called foliumzuur or vitamin B11; internationally it is usually referred to as vitamin B9 or folate.
The body cannot produce folic acid on its own, it is obtained through food (leafy green vegetables, legumes, liver) or supplements. A deficiency can develop relatively quickly because the body's reserves are limited. Pregnant women, people with malabsorption (such as coeliac disease), and those on certain medications have an increased risk of a low folic acid level.
In het kort
B vitamin
B11 (Netherlands) / B9 (international)
DNA production
Important for cell division
Blood formation
For red blood cells
Pregnancy
Important before and during
Veelvoorkomende redenen om te meten
Hieronder enkele situaties waarin een meting van Folic Acid inzicht kan bieden.
A test gives a baseline for your folic acid level.
Before and during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, adequate folic acid is important. A test can give insight into the baseline.
Fatigue is a commonly reported complaint; folic acid status is one of the possible factors that can be investigated.
With known macrocytic anaemia (elevated MCV), folic acid is measured alongside B12 as part of the cause analysis.
Elevated homocysteine sometimes indicates a deficiency of folic acid, B12, or B6. The three together regulate the breakdown.
In coeliac disease, Crohn's disease, or following gastric surgery, folic acid absorption may be reduced.
Wat betekent uw uitslag
Folic acid is measured in nanomoles per litre (nmol/L) in serum. Some laboratories also measure intracellular folate (RBC folate), we measure standard serum folic acid.
A low folic acid level indicates a deficiency. Possible causes include insufficient intake, malabsorption, or certain medications. Supplementation through diet or supplements is a common approach.
Folic acid within the reference range gives a reassuring picture of this vitamin status. For pregnant women, a higher lower threshold is sometimes applied, supplementation before and early in pregnancy remains recommended in line with standard guidelines, even with normal values.
An elevated serum folic acid level is often seen with active supplementation and is usually not harmful. With high values, we advise also checking B12 status, as high folic acid can mask a potential B12 deficiency.
Hoe wij uw uitslag interpreteren
Our doctors interpret your folic acid in the context of your situation, age, sex, any pregnancy or wish to conceive, diet, medication use, and related markers such as B12 and homocysteine.
Related tests
A single marker gives one perspective. For a broader picture you can combine Folic Acid with a theme package or related markers.
Veelgestelde vragen
We advise fasting for 8 hours before a folic acid measurement, as recent food intake can temporarily raise the value.
Folate is the natural form found in food. Folic acid is the synthetic form in supplements and fortified foods. Both are converted in the body to the active form 5-MTHF (methylfolate). In some people, this conversion is slower (MTHFR variant).
Good natural sources include leafy green vegetables (spinach, broccoli, kale), legumes (lentils, chickpeas), liver, oranges, avocado, and wholegrain products.
In healthy people, excess folic acid is excreted in the urine. However, a high dose of folic acid can mask an underlying B12 deficiency, which is why we recommend also checking B12 status when actively supplementing.
Yes, a measurement can confirm that your level is sufficient. This is particularly valuable information for women who are planning a pregnancy or are in early pregnancy.
Folic acid is one of three B vitamins (together with B6 and B12) that help break down homocysteine. A deficiency of folic acid can lead to elevated homocysteine.
Yes, certain medications (including methotrexate, sulphasalazine, and certain anti-epileptics) can affect folic acid status. Please let us know of any medication you are taking.
You will receive a PDF report with your value and explanation. What you do with it, such as discussing it with your GP or midwife, remains entirely your choice.
For €69 you receive your folic acid level including personal explanation from a doctor, typically within 2 business days. No referral required.
Order Folic Acid for €69 →Want to test multiple markers at once?
Combine Folic Acid with other markers via Bloodworks Select. Blood draw costs are waived from €225.
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