Nutrients system

Folate (serum)

Folate

A B vitamin essential to red blood cell production and DNA synthesis.

What is it

Folate (serum) — in plain English.

Folate (vitamin B9) is essential to red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia and is studied in research on cardiovascular and cognitive health.

Why it's measured

What Folate can reveal.

Folate deficiency has been associated with anemia and elevated homocysteine in published research.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

> 4.0 ng/mL

Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower Folate — at a high level.

Elevated

Generally not clinically concerning.

Lower

Has been associated with anemia and elevated homocysteine in research literature.

These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.

When it's measured

When Folate is typically run.

Measured in anemia evaluation and broader nutritional assessment.

Related markers

Often measured alongside Folate.

Measured in

Folate is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
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This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.