Folic acid test

Check your folic acid level in your blood.

Vitamin B11, better known as folic acid, plays an important role in maintaining your overall health. This test measures the level of folic acid in your blood.

  •  
  • Test anonymously from home
  • ISO-certified laboratory
  • Reliable, discreet and secure
  • Pickup point / parcel locker available
  • Results validated by a biochemist
Now €43,00
Folic acid test
our benefits folic acid test
discreetly shipped

Folic acid test

Vitamin B11, better known as folic acid, is an essential water-soluble B vitamin. It plays a central role in many important processes in the body, such as DNA production, cell division and the formation of red blood cells. It is particularly important to get enough folic acid during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy. A deficiency can affect both your own health and that of an unborn child, including an increased risk of birth defects. With this simple blood test, you can check whether your folic acid level is adequate, allowing you to take targeted action for your health and well-being.


Testing method

Finger-prick test
We test for:
Folic acid

€43,00

  • Discreet verpakt en anoniem getest
  • Past door de brievenbus
  • Getest in ISO-gecertificeerd laboratorium
  • Pickup Point / pakketautomaat mogelijk
  • Resultaat gevalideerd door biochemicus
  • Meer dan 1.800 mensen gingen je voor. Beoordeeld met een 9,7!
About the folic acid test

How does the folic acid test from Labtest.nl work?

This test measures the amount of folic acid (vitamin B11) in your blood. You collect a small blood sample at home using a simple finger prick. You then send the sample to the laboratory. You will usually receive your results in your personal online dashboard one day after your sample has arrived.

What is included in the test kit?

The folic acid test kit contains everything you need to safely and easily collect a blood sample yourself.

How do you collect a blood sample?

Your blood sample is collected using a finger prick. The test kit contains everything you need to do this correctly and hygienically. For an easy sample collection, you can follow our step-by-step guide or watch the instructional video, which explains exactly how to collect the sample.

How does the entire process work?

  • Activate your test online using the codes provided.
  • Follow the instructions to collect your blood sample.
  • Send the sample using the included return label.
  • Receive your results within a few working days in your personal online dashboard.

Labtest.nl provides a reliable, safe and simple testing experience, right from the comfort of your own home.

Symptoms of folic acid deficiency

Symptoms of folic acid deficiency

A folic acid (vitamin B11) deficiency can lead to various health problems, including deficiency anaemia. This is a type of anaemia in which the body produces too few red blood cells or produces enlarged red blood cells that do not function as effectively.

The symptoms can often resemble those of iron deficiency. Below is an overview of common complaints:

1. Mouth and tongue problems

You may experience:

  • A sore, red or swollen tongue
  • Small ulcers in the mouth
  • A burning sensation in the mouth or tongue

2. Pale skin

Because less oxygen is transported through the blood, your skin may appear pale or greyish.

3. Digestive problems

Folic acid deficiency can cause:

  • Reduced appetite
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhoea

4. Emotional and mental effects

Because folic acid is important for the production of neurotransmitters, you may experience:

  • Irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Forgetfulness

5. Fatigue and shortness of breath

When there are too few red blood cells, your muscles and organs receive less oxygen, which can lead to:

  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Rapid breathing during exercise

6. During pregnancy

A folic acid deficiency during early pregnancy increases the risk of neural tube defects in the baby, such as spina bifida. This is why sufficient folic acid intake is particularly important during this period.

7. Concentration and memory problems

In more severe cases, you may experience:

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Memory problems
  • Reduced cognitive function

If you recognise one or more of these symptoms, it may be useful to have your folic acid level tested. Early detection can help address a deficiency promptly and appropriately.

Biomarker summary

The importance of folic acid

Folic acid (vitamin B11) is an essential vitamin that the body cannot produce itself. Although many people get enough through a varied diet, folic acid deficiency still occurs regularly. Folic acid is mainly found in leafy green vegetables, fresh fruit, whole grains and dairy products. A deficiency can cause symptoms such as reduced appetite, unintended weight loss and fatigue. Folic acid is particularly important during early pregnancy. A deficiency during this period increases the risk of neural tube defects in the baby, such as spina bifida.

The recommended daily intake of folic acid for adults is 300 micrograms. For women who are planning to become pregnant or who are pregnant, it is recommended to take at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily through supplements.

Lab results

How long does it take to receive my results?

Once you have collected and sent your blood sample, you will generally receive your results within one working day after the sample has been received by the laboratory. You will receive an email with a link to your personal and secure dashboard as soon as your results are available, allowing you to view them online. At Labtest.nl, we do our best to keep you well informed throughout the entire process and provide a smooth experience.

How should I interpret my test result?

Folic acid (vitamin B11) is important for the production of red blood cells and the proper functioning of your nervous system. A blood test measures the amount of folic acid in your blood. A low level can, for example, cause fatigue, dizziness or tingling. Your test result will show a number, often in nmol/L or ng/mL. It will usually also indicate the normal range, so you can see whether your level is too low, normal or too high. Test results provide a snapshot in time and can be influenced by factors such as diet, lifestyle, medication and the time of sample collection. Abnormal values do not automatically mean that you have a medical condition. If you are unsure about your results, always discuss them with your doctor.

Folic acid deficiency

A folic acid level below 10.4 nmol/L indicates a deficiency.
Possible causes include:

  • Insufficient dietary intake
  • Poor absorption in the intestines
  • Increased requirements (for example during pregnancy)

If your level is too low, consult your doctor. They can advise you on the use of supplements or additional tests, for example for vitamin B12.

Foods rich in folic acid include:

  • Leafy green vegetables (such as spinach and kale)
  • Beans and legumes
  • Whole grains
  • Peanuts
  • Sunflower seeds

Sufficient folic acid

A level between 10.4 nmol/L and 42.4 nmol/L is considered adequate. This means that you currently have sufficient folic acid in your blood.

High folic acid level

A level above 42.4 nmol/L is considered elevated.

Although a high folic acid level is rare (excess folic acid is usually excreted through the urine), it can sometimes be associated with:

  • Excessive use of supplements
  • Pernicious anaemia
  • Blind loop syndrome

If you have an elevated level, it is advisable to discuss this with your doctor for further investigation and advice.

Test kit contents

What about my privacy?

We keep your testing as anonymous as possible. How do we do that?

Your order

Your order details are retained for as long as necessary and are removed from the webshop after 2 months.

Your test kit

Your order is delivered in discreet, unbranded packaging. The test kit itself also contains no visible information about what is being tested.

The laboratory

For an anonymous analysis, you can choose to share only your date of birth and gender with the laboratory. No other personal information is shared.

Your result

You can download your laboratory result for one month. After this period, we automatically delete the report.

Your account

You can delete your account at any time. If your account is inactive for 2 years, it will be automatically deleted.

This is how we test anonymously.

Group 3

How does it work?

Your result in four simple steps
Order a test
Step 1

Order a test

After placing your order, you will receive the test kit in discreet packaging. Use the information provided in the box to activate your test kit.
You will receive your order in discreet packaging.
Collect and send your sample
Step 2

Collect and send your sample

You can easily collect the samples yourself whenever it suits you and return them free of charge in the enclosed return envelope.
With our free return envelope.
Sample analysis
Step 3

Sample analysis

Once your sample has arrived at the laboratory, you will usually receive your test result within one working day.
Results usually within 1–2 working days.
Receive your results
Step 4

Receive your results

You will receive an email when your test result is ready, and you can view your result online in a secure environment.
View and download your results in your secure online account.

Frequently Asked Questions Everything about Folic acid test

Yes, folic acid is also important for your health if you are not planning to have children. This B vitamin plays an important role in several processes in the body, including:

  • The production of DNA and healthy cell division
  • The formation of red blood cells
  • A properly functioning nervous system
  • Maintaining a healthy heart and blood vessels
  • Supporting your immune system

Although folic acid is often associated with pregnancy, it is an essential nutrient for overall health. A healthy and varied diet usually provides enough folate to meet your daily needs.

Your body usually removes excess folic acid through your urine. It is very unlikely to get too much folate from food alone. However, taking high doses of folic acid supplements (more than 1,000 micrograms / 1 mg per day) may cause side effects, such as:

  • Stomach discomfort
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea

A high intake of folic acid can also mask a vitamin B12 deficiency. This may allow a B12 deficiency to continue unnoticed, which can cause long-term health problems.

Some studies suggest that very high folic acid intake may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, such as prostate cancer, although more research is needed to fully understand this relationship.

It is therefore important not to exceed the recommended dosage unless advised by your doctor.

For adults, the recommended daily amount (RDA) of folate is 300 micrograms (mcg). This can usually be obtained through a healthy and varied diet.

For women who are trying to conceive or who are newly pregnant, different advice applies: 400 micrograms of folic acid per day from a supplement is recommended, starting four weeks before conception and continuing through the tenth week of pregnancy. This helps reduce the risk of birth defects such as neural tube defects.

If you have any doubts about the right amount for your situation, always consult your doctor or midwife.

Yes, folic acid can significantly reduce the risk of certain birth defects, especially neural tube defects such as spina bifida or anencephaly. These defects develop very early in pregnancy, often within the first four weeks, sometimes even before you know you are pregnant.

That is why health organisations, such as the Dutch Nutrition Centre and the CDC, recommend taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily when trying to conceive. It is advised to start at least four weeks before conception and continue through the first ten weeks of pregnancy.

This helps give your baby the best possible start. If you have any questions or doubts, always consult your doctor or midwife.

Folate and folic acid are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same.

Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 and is found in foods such as beans, citrus fruits, and green leafy vegetables.

Folic acid is the synthetic (man-made) form of vitamin B9 and is used in supplements and fortified products such as breakfast cereals, bread, and pasta.

Both forms support important functions in the body, including the production of blood cells and DNA. Folic acid has been proven effective in reducing the risk of neural tube defects in babies, such as spina bifida.

Because it can be difficult to get enough folate from food alone, women who are trying to conceive or are in the first weeks of pregnancy are advised to take an additional folic acid supplement. Always discuss this with your doctor or midwife.

  • Eat folate-rich foods: Include foods such as spinach, lentils, fortified breakfast cereals, oranges, avocado, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, sunflower seeds, and organ meats.
  • Consider a supplement: If you think you are not getting enough folate through your diet, a supplement may help. Always consult your doctor before starting one.
  • Limit alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with folate absorption. Drink in moderation.
  • For (expecting) mothers: Use prenatal vitamins containing folic acid to support the healthy development of your baby.

Suspect a deficiency? Have your folate levels checked by your doctor.

Foliumzuur is belangrijk voor je gezondheid, vooral bij zwangerschap of kinderwens. Je vindt het onder andere in:

Folic acid (folate) is important for your health, especially during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. You can find it in foods such as:

  • Green leafy vegetables such as rocket, endive, lettuce, and Swiss chard
  • Beans and lentils such as mung beans, white beans, and split peas
  • Fortified grains such as oatmeal and muesli
  • Citrus fruits such as mandarins and lemon juice
  • Guava, a tropical fruit rich in folate
  • Brussels sprouts, which contain folate and other important nutrients
  • Pumpkin seeds, a convenient snack source
  • Organ meats such as kidney or heart (for those who eat meat)

A varied diet helps ensure you get enough folate.