What Is a Folate Blood Test?
Folate (vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and preventing neural tube defects.
Normal Range
- 2–20 ng/mL (serum folate)
- Below 2 = deficient
Deficiency Causes
- Inadequate dietary intake
- Malabsorption (celiac, IBD)
- Alcohol use
- Medications (methotrexate, sulfasalazine)
- Increased demand (pregnancy)
Deficiency Symptoms
- Macrocytic anemia (large red cells)
- Fatigue
- Glossitis
- Neural tube defects in pregnancy
Food Sources
- Leafy greens
- Legumes
- Fortified grains
- Citrus fruits
Source: NLM MedlinePlus, AACC.
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