Test your
Vitamin B12
Looking for an easy way to test and monitor your Vitamin B12?
It's included in the HealthieOne Disease-Specific test.
Vitamin B12
Explanation: Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a crucial nutrient that supports the health of nerve cells and is essential for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. The body does not produce vitamin B12; therefore, it must be obtained through dietary sources such as meat, dairy products, and eggs, or through fortified foods and supplements.
Test Purpose: Regular monitoring and maintaining adequate vitamin B12 levels are vital for neurological function and overall health.
- Detect vitamin B12 deficiencies which may lead to anemia, a condition where the body cannot produce sufficient red blood cells due to the lack of vitamin B12.
- Identify absorption issues related to conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders, specifically gastritis which results in vitamin B12 deficiency due to a lack of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which is needed for vitamin B12 absorption.
- Investigate neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or balance problems associated with B12 deficiency.
Other information about this test: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic- Vitamin B12 deficiency, Mount Sinai, UCSF Health, ARUP Laboratories, MedlinePlus
