Test library
Folic Acid Blood Test
A folic acid test measures folate, a B vitamin needed for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and healthy cell division. It is used to detect deficiency that can cause certain types of anemia and related symptoms.
Order Folic Acid Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Folic Acid Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $29
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The folic acid test measures the level of folate in the blood. Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin the body uses for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and cell division. Testing helps detect low levels that can contribute to fatigue, weakness, and a type of anemia. Results are interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider alongside other findings.
What this test measures
Folate is a water-soluble B vitamin found in leafy greens, legumes, citrus, and fortified grains. The body needs it for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and proper cell division. A blood test measures folate to see whether levels are adequate or low, which helps explain certain types of anemia and related symptoms.
The test is usually performed on a serum or plasma sample collected from a vein. Folate can also be measured inside red blood cells, a form that reflects longer-term stores rather than recent intake. Laboratories report the result against a reference range, and clinicians interpret it alongside vitamin B12, since the two vitamins interact closely.
Clinicians order folate testing when someone has signs of anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, or a sore tongue, or when a complete blood count shows enlarged red blood cells. It may also be checked during pregnancy planning, with certain medications, or when diet or absorption is a concern. Results guide further evaluation with a qualified healthcare provider.
- Folate (folic acid) level
- Red blood cell folate
- Vitamin B12
- Hemoglobin
- Hematocrit
- Mean corpuscular volume (MCV)
- Reticulocyte count
- Homocysteine
Why people order this test
- Investigate anemia with enlarged red blood cells
- Evaluate fatigue, weakness, or mouth soreness
- Check vitamin status during pregnancy planning
- Monitor people with poor diet or absorption concerns
- Follow up on abnormal complete blood count results
- Assess folate status with certain long-term medications
- Distinguish folate deficiency from vitamin B12 deficiency
How to prepare
No fasting is usually required for a folate blood test. Follow any instructions provided by the laboratory, especially if the test is bundled with other panels that call for fasting.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. A low value suggests folate deficiency, but a qualified healthcare provider interprets the number together with vitamin B12, symptoms, and other findings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is folic acid and why is it tested?
Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, a B vitamin the body uses for DNA synthesis and red blood cell production. Testing shows whether levels are too low.
Do I need to fast before a folate test?
Fasting is not usually required. If the folate test is combined with other tests that need fasting, the laboratory provides specific instructions.
What symptoms can low folate cause?
Low folate can contribute to fatigue, weakness, and a type of anemia with enlarged red blood cells. A healthcare provider evaluates symptoms with test results.
Is this test the same as a vitamin B12 test?
No. Folate and vitamin B12 are measured separately, but they are often ordered together because both affect red blood cells and can cause similar anemia.
Can diet affect my folate level?
Yes. Folate comes from foods such as leafy greens, legumes, and fortified grains, so recent intake and overall diet can influence the result.
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Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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