Vitamin B12 Test

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient used for producing red blood cells, maintaining a healthy nervous system, and creating DNA. Vitamin B12 must be absorbed through diet or supplementation as the body is not able to produce it. This blood test measures B12 levels and can identify vitamin B12 deficiency (ie, low levels of B12) which may be due to limited dietary intake, poor absorption, aging, and certain health conditions or medications. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, neurological conditions, and various other health issues.

No doctor’s visit needed.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is absorbed in the small intestines and then makes its way to the blood and cells. The body also stores vitamin B12 in the liver for future use. Vitamin B12 is essential in supporting the nervous system, making red blood cells, and creating DNA (the genetic material present in our cells). Vitamin B12 must be supplied by the diet or supplementation because the body is not able to produce it independently. It is naturally found in animal proteins, such as red meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy. Plant foods are not a reliable source of vitamin B12 unless they are fortified.



Low levels of vitamin B12 may occur if you do not consume enough vitamin B12 or the body does not store or absorb enough of the vitamin. People who are deficient in vitamin B12 may or may not have any symptoms of anemia (a condition in which your body does not have enough healthy red cells to carry oxygen to your body’s tissues) or nerve damage. Early detection is important to prevent irreversible damage over time, especially to the nervous system.

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