Folate
Disclaimer: Information on this page is for educational purposes. Consult a physician to interpret your test results. Lissa Health helps track biomarker trends but does not replace medical advice.
What This Test Measures
Folate (B9) is essential for DNA synthesis. Deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia.
Critical before and during early pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects.
Normal Ranges
| Group | Reference Range |
|---|---|
| Men | 3.1–17.5 ng/mL |
| Women | 3.1–17.5 ng/mL |
| Children | 3.1–17.5 ng/mL |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and assay method.
Causes of High Levels
- Supplementation
- Fortified diet
Causes of Low Levels
- Poor diet
- Malabsorption
- Pregnancy
- Methotrexate
Test Preparation
- Report prenatal vitamins
Related Biomarkers
| Biomarker | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Vitamin B12 | Megaloblastic anemia |
| Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) | Macrocytosis |
| Hemoglobin | Anemia |
FAQ
How often should I take this test?
In pregnancy planning.
What should I do if my result is abnormal?
Deficiency — folic acid 400–800 mcg daily for pregnancy planning.
Last updated: June 2026