Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that your body cannot make on its own. It plays a vital role in red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. This test measures the level of vitamin B12 in your bloodstream to help identify a deficiency or, less commonly, an excess.

This test is suitable for anyone experiencing symptoms that may suggest low B12, such as persistent fatigue, weakness, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, memory difficulties, or a sore, red tongue. It is also valuable for individuals with risk factors for deficiency, including a plant-based diet, older age, gastrointestinal conditions that affect absorption (such as Crohn's disease or coeliac disease), a history of gastric surgery, or long-term use of certain medications like proton pump inhibitors or metformin.

Biomarkers

• Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)

Why it matters

Vitamin B12 deficiency is common and can develop gradually, with symptoms that are easily mistaken for other conditions or simply attributed to a busy lifestyle. If left untreated, low B12 can lead to anaemia and irreversible nerve damage. Identifying a deficiency early allows for simple, effective treatment, often with dietary changes or supplementation, and can resolve symptoms while preventing long-term complications. This test provides a clear, direct measurement to guide that process.