Folate
Understand Folate levels for DNA synthesis and red blood cell health. Monitor B-vitamin status for optimal wellness tracking.
What is Folate?
Folate (vitamin B9) is an essential B vitamin crucial for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and proper fetal development during pregnancy. Your body cannot produce folate, so it must be obtained from leafy greens, fortified foods, or supplements.
Why is it Tested?
Doctors test folate to investigate megaloblastic anemia, assess nutritional status, evaluate unexplained fatigue or weakness, and monitor pregnancy health. It’s also checked in patients with malabsorption disorders or those taking medications that affect folate metabolism.
Normal Ranges
Reference ranges for serum folate:
- Deficient: <3 ng/mL
- Normal: 3–17 ng/mL
Optimal levels for cardiovascular health and neural tube defect prevention are often considered to be >4 ng/mL.
Reference ranges vary by authority. Track yours across multiple standards with automatic unit conversions in LabsVault.
What do Abnormal Results Mean?
Abnormal results are not a diagnosis. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.
Low Folate
Deficiency may cause:
- Megaloblastic anemia
- Fatigue and weakness
- Neural tube defects in pregnancy
- Increased homocysteine levels
- Poor wound healing
- Mood changes or depression
High Folate
Excessive levels may indicate:
- Recent folate supplementation
- Vitamin B12 deficiency masking
- Certain medications
How to Track Over Time
Folate levels respond relatively quickly to dietary changes and supplementation. During pregnancy, adequate folate is crucial for preventing birth defects, making regular monitoring important. Tracking helps ensure optimal levels for DNA synthesis and red blood cell production.
Track your Folate results over time
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