Folate

What Does This Test Check?

Folate (vitamin B9) is the vitamin needed to make red blood cells and DNA. Low folate causes a specific type of anaemia and matters most around pregnancy.

Lola Health lists this as an add-on biomarker at £15, posted as a home sample with results in one to four working days. It cannot be bought on its own: you pick it while ordering one of Lola's main blood tests, so it suits someone who already knows which extra marker they want.

A low level may indicate a dietary shortfall or absorption problem, and levels reflect very recent intake. Anyone planning pregnancy is usually advised on folate supplements separately. Whatever the reading, an out-of-range result needs a doctor who can see the whole picture, so go through it with your GP before acting on it.