What does it mean?
Vitamin B12 commonly known as Cobalamin. It is vital for the formation of red blood cells, as well as for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin. Lack of sufficient amount of vitamin B12 in the body cause vitamin B12 deficiency which results in anemia (pernicious anemia) and irreversible nerve and brain damage.
Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal foods, including meats, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy. However, it can also be found in products fortified with B12, such as some varieties of bread and plant-based milk.
What does it mean when your vitamin b12 is high?
Conditions may occur like:
-high blood pressure
-acne
-rash
-itchy or burning skin
-pink or red skin discoloration
-facial flushing
-urine discoloration
What does it mean when your vitamin b12 level is low?
-Weakness
-Fatigue
-Lethargy
-Pale complexion
-Palpitations
-Constipation or diarrhea
-Easy bruising and bleeding
What is the normal range of vitamin b12?
Normal values are 200 to 900 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL). Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories.
How vitamin B12 test is helpful?
-To check anemia (lack of red blood cells)
-Pre-pregnancy health check
-To check nerve health
-To check your nutritional status
-To help diagnose the cause of changes in your mental state or behavior.
Is fasting required for vitamin b12 test?
You don’t need to fast before all blood tests. Your doctor will tell you if you need to.
How would you prepare for vitamin b12 test?
You will need to fast for 6-8 hours before your blood sample is taken.
How would you get it done?
Lab technician will draw blood from a vein in your arm or the back of your hand.
