Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is found in virtually all meat products and certain algae such as seaweed. It helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells and is also needed to make DNA, the genetic material in all cells.

The human body stores several years' worth of vitamin B12, however, those with pernicious anaemia, vegetarians, vegans and those who have recently had gastric bypass surgery are all at a greater risk of a vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms usually develop gradually but can worsen if the condition goes untreated, they include headaches, feeling faint, pale skin and palpitations. Pernicious Anaemia (an autoimmune condition) prevents absorption by stopping the production of intrinsic factor and is the leading cause of Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Iron Status

Clotting Status

Red Blood Cells

White Blood Cells

Vitamins

Active B12 levels can be affected by use of vitamin B12 supplements. If you are taking an oral supplement then we recommend not taking it for one week prior to the test to ensure an accurate measure of your B12 levels. If vitamin B12 is being prescribed to you by your doctor then you should discuss with them how long to omit B12 supplements for.