Vitamin B 9 in Bangalore

Also known as Folic Acid, Folate

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Vitamin B 9 in Bangalore

What is Vitamin B 9 in Bangalore?

A Vitamin B 9 test is used to measure the blood levels of Vitamin B9. It is available at an affordable price in Bangalore with Tata 1mg Labs. Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid, is vital for overall health as it plays a crucial role in forming red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and the growth of cells and other body tissues. Vitamin B9 deficiency may cause symptoms such as paleness, weakness, mouth ulcers, irritability, weight loss, etc.

Your doctor may recommend a Vitamin B 9 if you are experiencing vitamin B9 deficiency signs or are currently being treated with Vitamin B9 supplements because of a previously diagnosed deficiency. This test is also a crucial monitoring parameter to ensure a healthy pregnancy, as folate deficiency can lead to severe birth defects. No special preparation is required for this test. You may eat and drink as per your daily routine. However, please inform your doctor about the Vitamiin B9 supplements you take, as they may affect your test results.

What does Vitamin B 9 measure?

A Vitamin B 9 test analyzes the levels of vitamin B9 in the blood. Vitamin B9 is a part of the B complex of vitamins and is an essential nutrient, meaning the body cannot produce it and has to be taken into the diet. Folate is the naturally occurring form of vitamin B9, whereas folic acid refers to a supplement that is added to food and drinks. The deficiency of vitamin B9 (folic acid) can also lead to macrocytic anemia in which the size of the RBCs becomes larger than normal.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Vitamin B 9 in Bangalore

Frequently Asked Questions about Vitamin B 9 in Bangalore

Q. What are the signs and symptoms of vitamin B9 deficiency?

The signs and symptoms of vitamin B9 deficiency include fatigue, paleness, shortness of breath, tender and red tongue, mouth ulcers, reduced sense of taste, memory loss, difficulty in concentration, confusion, muscle weakness, weight loss, etc. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Q. What causes folate or vitamin B9 deficiency?

One of the most common causes of folate deficiency is not consuming folate-rich food in your diet. Other causes may include poor or inadequate absorption of folic acid, excessive alcohol intake, hemolytic anemia, certain medications, and kidney dialysis.

Q. What are the complications of folate-deficiency anemia?

The complications associated with vitamin B9 deficiency are memory loss, state of confusion, infertility, heart diseases, certain cancers, pregnancy issues, depression, dementia, decreased cognitive function, Alzheimer’s disease, etc.

Q. How can I raise my vitamin B9 levels naturally?

Always consult your doctor if your vitamin B9 levels are lower than normal. However, incorporating vitamin B9-rich foods, such as fish, milk, eggs, soy products, beans, and green leafy vegetables, can help raise the levels naturally.

Q. What are the different forms of vitamin B9?

Vitamin B9 is an essential nutrient that exists in two forms: folate and folic acid. Folate is a naturally occurring form of vitamin B9 and is present in green leafy vegetables. Whereas, folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9 and is used in supplements and processed food items.

Q. What is the role of folic acid in pregnancy?

In pregnancy, folic acid helps form the neural tube during the early development of the baby. It also prevents some major birth defects during the development of the baby’s brain (anencephaly) and spine (spina bifida). Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning to conceive to know about any supplements that you may need during pregnancy.

Q. Are vitamins B9 and B12 the same?

No, vitamins B9 and B12 are not the same. However, vitamin B9 works closely with vitamin B12, also called cobalamin, to form red blood cells and improve iron levels in the body.

Q. What is the difference between serum folate and RBC folate?

Serum folate is affected by diet, whereas RBC folate is a more reliable indicator of folate status. RBC folate is useful in case serum folate is normal but there is a high clinical suspicion of nutritional deficiency.

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