VITAMIN LEVELS: CHECK YOUR VITAMIN PROFILE

Working alongside London Medical Laboratory, we can measure your key vitamin levels, through an in-store test at your local pharmacy.

Price quoted is per in-pharmacy test. This is provided to you when booking, prior to appointment confirmation.

INTRODUCTION

Vitamins and minerals are essential for the optimum healthy functioning of our bodies and cells. This Vitamin Profile test checks for:

. Vitamin D

. Vitamin B12

. Folate

Low levels of Vitamin B12 and folate can have significant effects on the blood and overall health. It is especially important that those following a vegan lifestyle find an adequate means of topping up their Vitamin B12 and folate levels.

Monitoring Vitamin D levels is important to the UK population, due to our climate and limited months of sunshine. Around 25% of the population may be Vitamin D deficient each winter, which can lead to a wide range of problems such as depression, fatigue, and bone and muscle pains.

HOW DOES THE TEST WORK?

Blood tests are a perfect solution to those curious about their health, worried about symptoms of deficiencies or actively managing a pre-existing medical condition. They are fast and painless to complete, inexpensive, and they promote autonomy.

Visit one of our easily accessible pharmacy branches, in a location most convenient to you. Testing is straightforward, simple, and stress-free.

Results are sent out within 24 hours of us receiving your sample at our laboratory. Our laboratory operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, meaning your results are processed as soon as we receive them. Our in-house GP can then review the results and communicate them directly to you in very short timeframes.

*Blood tests are not a substitute for seeking medical advice. You should always discuss any symptoms or treatment options with a suitably qualified medical professional, and it is essential that you seek advice if you are experiencing any symptoms.

WHAT IS TESTED FOR?

VITAMINS – 3 BIOMARKERS

Our bodies depend on adequate vitamins and minerals to maintain good health. They are necessary for growth, repair, development and normal cell function. When there is a vitamin deficiency, ill health and issues can result.

Vitamin D

As well as being essential for growth and development, plus good bone health; Vitamin D is essential for good gut health. Levels of Vitamin D are determined by 2 factors. The first is through ingestion of foods or supplements that contain Vitamin D. The second is through direct exposure to sunlight, resulting in the production of Vitamin D by skin cells. Vitamin D aids with the absorption and regulation of other vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. Vitamin testing can help diagnose low levels of Vitamin D, as well as being helpful for other pre-existing issues and conditions that affect the digestive system, such as Crohn’s.

Vitamin B12

Normal cell function and healthy blood depends on adequate levels of Vitamin B12. It assists with repair, renewal and growth, as well as cellular restoration and good nerve health. The primary source of Vitamin B12 is usually through a diet rich in meat, poultry, eggs, and leafy greens. This is why deficiencies are common in those following a plant-based diet. Vitamin B12 testing and results can help determine whether someone is anaemic and the root cause of that.

Folate

Folate is also known as Vitamin B9. It is necessary for the structure of normal, healthy, red blood cells, as well as being an essential part of cellular repair in the tissues. Folate levels are especially important during conception and pregnancy. Folate is commonly found in green leafy vegetables, and oranges. By testing folate levels, we can better understand the causes of underlying issues such as anaemia.

FAQs

What happens when my Vitamin B12 is low?

Fatigue, lethargy, pallor, headaches, and symptoms of depression may all indicate a deficiency. Extremely low levels may include symptoms of sore mouth, mouth ulcers, and feelings of tingling in the limbs. Vitamin B12 deficiencies should be addressed urgently as they can cause lasting damage.

What is the meaning of my Vitamin D results?

A low level of Vitamin D may mean that you are not exposed to enough sunlight for adequate production. It may also indicate kidney disease, or an issue where you cannot absorb Vitamin D properly. A high level of Vitamin D may indicate that you are over supplementing, either through diet or pills. It can also be a sign of certain medical conditions.

What are the signs of Vitamin D deficiency?

Experiencing tiredness, aches, pains, and a feeling of being ill may indicate a deficiency. Signs or weakness or extreme pain and discomfort, may indicate a more severe deficiency. Where someone suffers from a condition which causes malabsorption in the digestive system, routine testing for Vitamin D levels should be conducted regularly.

When should Vitamin D levels be checked?

One in five adults in the UK are thought to be Vitamin D deficient, so checking your levels regularly will help you remain on the path of optimum health. Vitamin D is produced when the skin is exposed to natural sunlight, therefore it is best to check levels in the autumn and winter months, as well as if you wear clothing regularly that covers most of your skin.

What are the signs of low folate?

Extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, tingling sensations, and blurred vision are all signs that you may be low in folate.

Folate is particularly important for those who are pregnant or trying to conceive. It plays a crucial part in the foetal brain development.