Vitamin B12 Test
Persistent fatigue and thyroid issues are often linked to B12 levels. While a standard B12 test might show normal total levels, it is the active form of B12, which makes up only 10-30% of the total, that plays a vital role in your health. GetTested’s Vitamin B12 Test specifically measures this active form. For a more comprehensive health assessment, our Vitamin Test includes standard B12, folate, vitamins D and E, and CoQ10, providing a detailed nutrient profile for those looking to address fatigue.
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GetTested's Vitamin B12 test
GetTested's Vitamin B12 test is designed to accurately trace for B12 in the blood.
Whereas traditional tests measure the total B12 in the body, encompassing both inactive and active forms, GetTested's Vitamin B12 test specifically measures holotranscobalamin, which is the active form of B12. This marker is more sensitive than MMA (methyl malonate), making it a reliable indicator of B12 deficiency.
Measure your B12 levels with our vitamin b12 test kit, delivered to your door and convenient to use at home. If you suspect you may have a Vitamin B12 deficiency, test for B12 now and quickly gain insights into your health.
About Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, a crucial water-soluble vitamin, plays a vital role in our bodies. Unlike other vitamins, our body cannot produce B12, making dietary intake essential. There are two forms of Vitamin B12: an active form known as Active B12, bound to the protein transcobalamin, and an inactive form. Cells in the body utilise the active form.
One key function of B12 involves DNA production. Without B12, cells cannot divide properly, hindering the replacement of damaged or malfunctioning cells. B12 also contributes to nerve myelination (creating insulating fats around nerves) and breaks down homocysteine, a by-product of protein metabolism.
B12's Unique Absorption Process
Despite being water-soluble, B12 does not dissolve well in water or fat. Its absorption requires a special mechanism involving the intrinsic factor (IF), produced by stomach wall cells. This factor binds to B12, facilitating its transport through the intestinal wall, into the blood, and eventually to the liver. Here, it is stored or distributed throughout the body.
The liver can store B12 for up to 20 years. Unlike other B vitamins, regular B12 intake isn't necessary if liver reserves are sufficient. However, certain groups, including vegans, alcoholics, and individuals who have had bariatric surgery, face a higher risk of B12 deficiency. This risk arises from a potential reduction in intrinsic factor production, crucial for B12 absorption.
Symptoms of a B12 deficiency
A Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause a variety of symptoms that usually develop gradually. If untreated, these conditions can get worse.
Most common symptoms of vitamin B12 include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhoea
Vitamin B12 deficiency can also have an affect on mental well-being and cause:
- Headaches,
- Feelings of depression
- Anxiety
- Problems with memory
Symptoms of this deficiency range from mild (like fatigue and weakness) to more severe issues like heart palpitations, aforementioned mental health problems, and neurological symptoms. These symptoms may progress to pernicious anaemia or nerve-related issues like tingling, muscle weakness, and "burning feet syndrome," a result of inadequate myelin formation around nerves.
Vegans and B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 naturally occurs in animal-based foods, placing vegans at a heightened risk of deficiency. For vegans, supplementing B12 is vital. The extent of deficiency largely depends on the liver's stored B12 levels at the time of switching to a vegan diet.
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