What are folate and folic acid? Why is folate so important?
Folate is a B vitamin naturally present in many foods. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate used in supplements and fortified foods. Folic acid is more easily absorbed than folate.
Folate is essential for making DNA and other genetic material, and for cell division. This is why it is so important during pregnancy, as it is are needed for the rapid growth and division of cells that occur in the growing fetus. All pregnant women, as well as those trying to conceive, should take folic acid supplements to reduce the risk of neural tube defects and other complications.
Why consider this test?
- During pregnancy due to the increased demands for folate required for the developing fetus.
- After gastrointestinal surgery
- For those affected by digestive disorders (e.g. Crohn’s or Celiac disease)
- Current or past alcoholics, as alcohol inhibits proper folate absorption and accelerates folate breakdown
- If you have vitamin B12 deficiency
Symptoms
Symptoms of folate deficiency:
Weakness
Difficulty concentrating
Headaches and irritability
Heart palpitations
Mouth ulcers
Shortness of breath
Folate deficiency during pregnancy increases the risk of:
Neural tube defects
Low birth weight
Preterm delivery
Fetal growth retardation
What’s included in the Folate Test?

Folate
Folate is an important nutrient that functions as a coenzyme or cosubstrate in various reactions, including the formation of DNA and RNA, and metabolism of amino acids.
Folate is naturally present in a wide variety of foods, including vegetables, fruit, nuts, beans, seafood, eggs, dairy products, poultry, and grains. Folic acid is obtained as a dietary supplement and also from enriched bread, cereals, flours, cornmeal, pastas, rice, and other grain products.
The primary clinical sign of deficiency is megaloblastic anemia.
How It Works
Step 1. Order your test.
Choose the test that matches your need from our large array of tests. The kit will be delivered to your doorstep. There is no need to leave the comfort of your home.
Step 2. Collect your sample.
Collect your sample using the included instructions. Return your sample using the prepaid, pre-addressed packaging provided.
Step 3. Access your results online
Your sample will be tested as soon as it arrives at our lab. Access your results securely online via TherizonConnect.

Use TherizonConnect to view your test results quickly and easily
The results are only available through TherizonConnect, a free, secure patient portal that you can access on your smartphone, tablet, or desktop. You can also share your results with your doctor, family, or friends.
Folate FAQ
Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about this test. Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions.
How much folate do I need?
Folate requirements vary depending on age and pregnancy/breastfeeding status. Infants under 6 months require 65 mcg dietary folate equivalents (DFE) and 80 mcg DFE for infants 7-12 months. The recommended dietary allowance for 1-3 years is 150 mcg DFE, with gradually increasing recommendations until the adult value of 400 mcg DFE by 14 years of age.
Pregnant women should obtain 600 mcg DFE each day, while breastfeeding women should obtain 500 mcg DFE each day. It is recommended that this added requirement be obtained from dietary supplements as folic acid alone or as part of a prenatal vitamin.
What folate level is considered as folate deficiency?
Folate deficiency is typically associated with serum levels less than 3.5 ng/mL or whole blood levels less than 150 ng/mL. This test measures serum folate levels. Folate deficiency usually occurs due to poor diet, alcoholism, or malabsorptive disorders.
Are there medical professionals involved in the process?
All of our tests are developed with advice and input from medical professionals.
How does the Folate Test work?
Self-collect your sample following the detailed instructions included in the kit. Place your sample in the specimen bag provided and mail it back to the lab using the prepaid envelope inside the kit.
Our lab uses a verified and approved chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) to accurately measure serum folate levels in the sample provided. Your results are available through our online portal as soon as testing is complete.
What are my options if I have abnormal results?
It is important to share any abnormal results with you healthcare provider, as they can take into consideration your medical history, any previous test results, physical examinations, and other factors to determine the best treatment option.
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