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Folate (Reduced) in Serum

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of active folate (vitamin B9) in your blood, which helps your body make healthy red blood cells and DNA.

Quick summary

["Reduced folate may indicate nutritional deficiencies or other health concerns."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35084-3
Short code
FLM Amn
Synonyms
FLM Amn
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or unusual bleeding, or if you have conditions like anemia, pregnancy, or certain medications that affect folate levels. It may also be part of routine screening for nutritional deficiencies.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves drawing blood. Avoid folate-rich foods (leafy greens, fortified cereals) for 24 hours before testing if instructed.

What Happens During the Test?

A small needle will be inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process is quick and usually causes only mild discomfort. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to a reference range, but exact values aren’t provided here. Low levels may signal folate deficiency, while high levels could indicate overconsumption or certain medical conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Low folate levels can lead to megaloblastic anemia (large, immature red blood cells), neurological issues, or increased risk of birth defects in pregnancy. High levels may be harmless but warrant further evaluation if unexplained. Folate is essential for cell growth and repair, so monitoring is important for patients with chronic illnesses or those on medications that deplete it.

Short name

Reduced Folate Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low folate levels?
Low folate levels can result from poor diet (lack of folate-rich foods), alcohol use, certain medications (like anticonvulsants or chemotherapy drugs), malabsorption disorders (e.g., celiac disease), or pregnancy.
How is folate deficiency treated?
Treatment often involves folate supplements (oral or intravenous) or dietary changes to increase folate intake. Your doctor may adjust medications or monitor symptoms closely.
Can folate levels be affected by diet?
Yes, folate is found in foods like spinach, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, and liver. Avoiding folate-rich foods for 24 hours before testing may improve accuracy if your levels are naturally low.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy