💊 Vitamins

Folate: What It Means for Your Health

Folate (vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and amino acid metabolism. It works synergistically with vitamin B12 to produce red blood cells and prevent megaloblastic anemia. Adequate folate is especially critical during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Folate is found in leafy greens, legumes, and fortified foods. Many countries mandate folic acid fortification of grain products.

Full Name
Folate (Vitamin B9/Folic Acid)
Normal Range
3–20 ng/mL
Also Known As
Folic Acid, Vitamin B9

Reference Range

LowNormal: 3–20 ng/mLHigh

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, age groups, and sexes. The values shown are general adult reference ranges. Always compare your results to the specific range provided by your testing laboratory.

What Is Folate?

Folate (vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and amino acid metabolism. It works synergistically with vitamin B12 to produce red blood cells and prevent megaloblastic anemia. Adequate folate is especially critical during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Folate is found in leafy greens, legumes, and fortified foods. Many countries mandate folic acid fortification of grain products.

Commonly included in:

Folate TestAnemia PanelPrenatal Panel

What Does High Folate Mean?

Above 20 ng/mL

High folate levels from food are not harmful. Excessive folic acid supplementation may mask vitamin B12 deficiency (by correcting anemia while allowing neurological damage to progress) and has been debated as a potential concern in certain cancers, though evidence is inconclusive.

What Does Low Folate Mean?

Below 3 ng/mL

Low folate causes megaloblastic anemia (similar to B12 deficiency), fatigue, mouth sores, tongue swelling, and growth problems. In pregnancy, folate deficiency increases the risk of neural tube defects (spina bifida, anencephaly), preterm birth, and low birth weight. Causes include poor diet, alcoholism, malabsorption, and certain medications (methotrexate, phenytoin).

Related Biomarkers in Vitamins

Vitamin D
Fat-soluble vitamin essential for bone health, immune function, and mood.
Range: 30–100 ng/mL
Vitamin B12
Essential vitamin for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation.
Range: 200–900 pg/mL
Vitamin A
Fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
Range: 30–65 ug/dL

Track Your Folate Over Time

Upload your blood test results to Hemoly and see how your Folate levels change over time. Get trend analysis, educational insights, and a personal health timeline.

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Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation of your blood test results and before making any health decisions.