Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
It's often checked together with vitamin B12.
Why it's done
- Anemia with large red blood cells
- Poor diet, heavy drinking, or gut absorption problems
- Taking medicines that affect folate, like methotrexate
Getting ready and what happens
- You may be asked to fast for 6 to 8 hours.
How the test is done
- A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.
What the results mean
| Result | Typical range for adults |
|---|---|
| Serum folate | Above about 3 ng/mL (labs vary) |
Normal ranges vary from lab to lab and can differ by age, sex, and pregnancy. Your report lists your lab's own range next to each result. A result a little outside the range is often not a problem.
Low
Suggests folate deficiency from diet, alcohol, absorption problems, pregnancy needs, or some medicines.
Normal
Folate deficiency is uncommon in the U.S. because many grain foods are fortified.
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
- Should I take folic acid?
- Should my B12 be checked too?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related medicines
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.