Skip to content

Folate Mass Concentration in Serum

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

This test measures the amount of folate (a B vitamin) in your blood serum. Folate helps your body make healthy red blood cells and DNA.

Quick summary

["Folate levels help check if you have a vitamin deficiency or related health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47226-6
Short code
FLM Amn-Imp
Synonyms
FLM Amn-Imp
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 doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or unusual bleeding. It’s also used to screen for conditions like anemia or to monitor folate supplements.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but avoid folate-rich foods (like leafy greens) for 24 hours before testing if instructed by your doctor.

What Happens During the Test?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What Do Results Mean?

Results help determine if your folate levels are low, normal, or high. Low levels may indicate poor nutrition or certain medical conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Folate

Frequently asked questions

What causes low folate levels?
Dietary deficiencies, alcohol use, certain medications, or conditions like Crohn’s disease or malabsorption can lead to low folate.
How is folate treated?
If low, folate supplements or dietary changes may be recommended. Your doctor will guide you based on your test results.
Can folate levels change with diet?
Yes, eating foods high in folate (like spinach, beans, or fortified cereals) can affect results. Follow your doctor’s advice on timing.
  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