Folate (Vitamin B9)
Folate (vitamin B9) is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for DNA synthesis, cell division, and amino acid metabolism. It works closely with vitamin B12 — deficiency of either causes similar symptoms. Folate is especially critical during pregnancy, as deficiency in early pregnancy dramatically increases the risk of neural tube defects (spina bifida) in the baby.
Reference Ranges
Male
2.7 – 17
ng/mL
Female
2.7 – 17
ng/mL
Child
5 – 21
ng/mL
Ages 1–18
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Always compare with the range printed on your lab report.
What Low Levels Mean
Low folate causes megaloblastic anemia (same type as B12 deficiency), fatigue, mouth sores, and graying hair. During pregnancy, deficiency causes neural tube defects (spina bifida, anencephaly). Causes include poor diet (low in leafy greens), alcohol abuse, celiac disease, and medications (methotrexate, phenytoin).
What High Levels Mean
High folate from food is not harmful. High-dose folic acid supplements can mask B12 deficiency — they correct the anemia but not the neurological damage, allowing nerve damage to progress silently. This is why doctors check B12 alongside folate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is folic acid important before pregnancy?
Neural tube defects occur in the first 28 days of pregnancy — often before a woman knows she is pregnant. Taking 400 µg of folic acid daily for at least 1 month before conception and through the first trimester reduces the risk of neural tube defects by 50–70%. All women of childbearing age should consider supplementation.
What is the difference between folate and folic acid?
Folate is the natural form found in food (leafy greens, legumes, citrus). Folic acid is the synthetic form used in supplements and fortified foods. Folic acid is more stable and better absorbed. Both are converted to the active form (methyltetrahydrofolate) in the body.
Can folate deficiency occur with a good diet?
It can, though it's less common. Alcohol interferes with folate absorption and metabolism. Certain medications (methotrexate, anti-seizure drugs) deplete folate. Celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease impair absorption. Cooking destroys much of the folate in food — raw or lightly cooked greens retain more.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for interpretation of your test results.
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