Private Active Vitamin B12 Blood Test UK

The vitamin B12 private blood test is also called cobalamin and is necessary for supporting the bone marrow, nerves and blood cells and renewing the cells. It also aids individuals in having a retentive memory. The body cannot produce this vitamin naturally, so it must be obtained through supplement intake or dieting.

We offer Vitamin B12 blood tests at Private Blood Test London, allowing you to check your Vitamin B12 levels through blood or urine samples. This essential vitamin plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions, such as supporting nerve health, producing red blood cells, and aiding DNA synthesis.

Vitamin B12 is vital for cellular regeneration and overall health. A deficiency in this nutrient may lead to symptoms such as:

• Shortness of breath and heart palpitations
• Fatigue and headaches

Why is Vitamin B12 important?

Vitamin B12 is essential for:

• Supporting healthy skin, hair, and nails
• Preventing anaemia and associated symptoms like weakness and fatigue

• Creating DNA and RNA, the building blocks of all cells
• Producing red blood cells
• Releasing energy from food
• Maintaining a healthy nervous system.

Natural sources of vitamin B12

To maintain adequate Vitamin B12 levels, include the following in your diet:

• For vegans, Fruits, vegetables, and grains do not contain Vitamin B12. Those following a vegan diet are at higher risk of deficiency and should consider taking supplements.
• Eggs
• Fortified foods: Breakfast cereals with added Vitamin B12
• Fish and shellfish: Sardines, clams, tuna
• Meat: Beef, chicken, liver
• Dairy products: Cheese, yoghurt

Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency

• Medications: Certain medications can interfere with B12 absorption, including:

Metformin (for diabetes)

Antipsychotics

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Acid reflux medications

• Surgical procedures: Surgeries such as gastrectomies (removal of part of the stomach) may hinder B12 absorption.
• Dietary deficiency: Insufficient intake of B12-rich foods can lead to a deficiency, especially for vegans or vegetarians.
• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, Vitamin B12 is transferred to the baby, potentially reducing levels in the mother.
• Digestive disorders: Conditions like Crohn’s disease, which inflames the digestive tract, can limit the absorption of B12.
• Pernicious anaemia: An autoimmune condition that damages stomach cells, making it impossible to absorb Vitamin B12. As a result, red blood cells become abnormally large and inefficient at carrying oxygen.

Recommended daily intake

The public health service advises adults aged 19–64 to consume 1.5 micrograms of Vitamin B12 daily. A low B12 level is generally considered to be below 200 nanograms/L. Requirements may differ for children, pregnant women, or older adults.

Consequences of vitamin B12 deficiency

A lack of Vitamin B12 can impair the body’s ability to create healthy cells, potentially leading to anaemia. Common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue and weakness

Assessing your vitamin B12 levels

Your Vitamin B12 levels can be tested at our private blood tests clinic. We offer two types of Vitamin B12 assessments to suit your specific requirements.

Contact Us Today

To book your Vitamin B12 blood test, contact Private Blood Tests London and schedule your appointment today.