Folate deficiency anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia characterized by abnormally large, immature red blood cells that cannot effectively transport oxygen. It is caused by insufficient vitamin B9 (folate) in the body due to poor dietary intake, malabsorption disorders, or certain medications that interfere with folate metabolism. The Folate, RBC test is the most important test for diagnosis because it measures long-term folate stores in red blood cells over the past 2-3 months.
90-day money-back guarantee
Lab order in minutes
Save a trip to the doctor
Low prices since 2005
Labs within 2 miles
Folate deficiency anemia is caused by insufficient vitamin B9 (folate) in your body, which prevents proper red blood cell production. The most common causes include poor dietary intake of folate-rich foods like leafy greens, legumes, and fortified grains, malabsorption disorders such as celiac disease or Crohn disease, and chronic alcohol consumption which interferes with folate absorption. Certain medications including methotrexate, phenytoin, and sulfasalazine can also deplete folate levels by blocking its metabolism or absorption in your digestive system.
The Folate, RBC (red blood cell folate) test is the most important test for folate deficiency anemia because it measures the amount of folate stored inside your red blood cells over the past 2-3 months. This provides a much more accurate picture of your long-term folate status compared to serum folate tests, which only show recent dietary intake and can fluctuate daily. The RBC folate test is essential for confirming the diagnosis and distinguishing folate deficiency from other types of anemia like vitamin B12 deficiency, which can look similar on routine blood work. Your doctor may also order a complete blood count (CBC) to check for the characteristic large, immature red blood cells that indicate megaloblastic anemia.
You should get tested if you experience persistent fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, or difficulty concentrating that does not improve with rest. Testing is especially important if you have a poor diet lacking in leafy greens and fortified grains, suffer from digestive disorders like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, consume alcohol regularly, or take medications known to interfere with folate absorption. Women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy should also get tested, as folate deficiency during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects and complications.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
What this means
Your testosterone levels are slightly below the optimal range. While this is not necessarily cause for concern, it may contribute to occasional fatigue, reduced motivation, or lower muscle mass over time.
Recommended actions
Increase resistance or strength training
Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night, try to reduce stress
Include more zinc- and magnesium-rich foods (like shellfish, beef, pumpkin seeds, spinach)
Consider retesting in 3–6 months
Not overhyped or overpriced. Just comprehensive blood testing made simple and for everyone.
505 reviews
Sample results
Your 24/7 Lab Guide
Quick questions:
