Private Folate Blood Test

Because your health matters

Understand your Vitamin B9 status with a private Folate Blood Test. This quick test assesses whether your folate levels are within a healthy range and can help identify deficiency-related symptoms such as fatigue, ulcers or anaemia. Useful for anyone with dietary restrictions, absorption issues or increased folate needs.

What a Folate Blood Test checks

Folate (vitamin B9) is essential for healthy cell function, red blood cell production, DNA formation and tissue growth. It’s especially important during pregnancy, when the body needs higher levels to support foetal development.

Most people get enough folate from food, but deficiencies can occur if you follow a restricted diet, struggle to absorb vitamins or have increased needs (such as during pregnancy). Low folate can lead to symptoms like extreme fatigue, pins and needles, ulcers, diarrhoea and folate deficiency anaemia.

If you’re concerned about your folate levels, a private folate blood test is a quick and accurate way to check whether your levels are within a healthy range and whether you may need supplements or further investigation.

Explore our packages and book online today.

Why choose Bluecrest?

Bluecrest employee putting a needle into someone's arm to draw blood.
  • 1.

    Fast, accurate results

  • 2.

    Convenient testing within 20 minutes of your home

  • 3.

    Detailed, personalised Results Report

  • 4.

    Free 24/7 GP helpline with all test packages

How it works

Man and woman looking at a laptop screen and smiling.

1. Select and book your package

Choose a full body health check and add any individual test. To add a test, call 0800 652 2183 before your appointment.

2. Choose a time and location

With over 2,000 appointments available every week across the UK and Ireland, it's easy to find a venue near you.

3. Attend your appointment

A trained health assessment specialist will complete your blood test. It usually takes 20-30 minutes.

4. Get fast results

Your results will be uploaded to your My Wellness dashboard and you'll be notified by email as soon as they're ready. Some results may be available in as little as three days.

What is a folate blood test?

A private folate blood test measures the amount of folate circulating in your blood. This essential vitamin supports:

  • Tissue growth

  • Cell function

  • Red blood cell formation

  • DNA production

  • Protein creation (alongside vitamins B12 and C)

Low folate levels can be linked to:

  • Anaemia

  • Fatigue

  • Ulcers

  • Birth defects such as spina bifida

  • Neurological symptoms

  • Digestive issues

Your results can show whether you need folic acid supplements or further tests to identify the underlying cause of deficiency.

Do I need a folate blood test?

**You may benefit from a test if you have symptoms such as: **

  • Extreme fatigue

  • Pins and needles

  • Sore or red tongue

  • Mouth ulcers

  • Weak muscles

  • Vision problems

  • Depression or confusion

  • Memory problems

Diet plays a major role in maintaining healthy folate levels. Foods rich in folate include:

  • Dark leafy greens (broccoli, Brussels sprouts)

  • Citrus fruits

  • Dried beans and peas

  • Cereals, pasta and breads fortified with folic acid

Common causes of folate deficiency include:

Low intake

  • Restricted diets

  • Poor nutrition

Malabsorption

  • Coeliac disease

  • Crohn’s disease

  • Bacterial overgrowth

  • Autoimmune conditions

  • Gastric band surgery

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • Alcoholism

Increased needs

  • Pregnancy (600mcg folic acid daily, or 1000mcg for twins)

What does the test involve?

A serum folate blood test requires a simple blood sample taken from a vein in your arm. Just a small amount of blood is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The process typically takes under five minutes.

Private health checks for complete peace of mind

Our full body private health checks are ideal for busy people who want a clear picture of their health. They're fast, convenient and carried out in high-quality venues across the UK and Ireland - always within 20 minutes of your home.

You can add any individual test to your full health check. Simply book your assessment and call us before your appointment to add extra tests.

Need help? Call free on 0800 652 2183 to speak to our team.

FAQs

What is a private folate blood test?

It measures the level of folate in your blood to identify whether your levels are within a healthy range. If they’re low, dietary changes, supplements or further investigation may be recommended.

Do I need to fast before a folate blood test?

You’ll receive full preparation instructions after booking. Stay hydrated and continue your medications unless advised otherwise. Some medicines and supplements can affect results.

What happens if my results are abnormal?

Your results are colour-coded:

  • Green - within range

  • Amber - slightly outside

  • Red - further outside

Where needed, we'll advise next steps, including lifestyle changes, monitoring or GP follow-up. Critical results are flagged immediately.

Can I take a folate test at home?

Home tests are convenient but may not provide as complete a picture. Bluecrest offers comprehensive testing at high-quality venues across the UK and Ireland.

Who processes my results?

Your sample is analysed by leading UK laboratories, and the findings are used to create your personalised Results Report.

Need help? Call free on 0800 652 2183 to speak to one of our team.