Description
Vitamin B12 Blood Test
Vitamin B12 is a very important nutrient that is involved in producing red blood cells, maintaining a healthy nervous system, and converting food to energy. It also helps to control the immune system and mood.
Causes of Vitamin B12 deficiency
For the majority of people, the cause of their deficiency is dietary, especially if they are vegetarian or vegan. However, some people are unable to absorb Vitamin B12 from food and some take medications which can reduce the absorption of Vitamin B12 from the stomach, such as metformin (which is used for diabetes) or omeprazole (which is often prescribed for indigestion).
Feeling constantly tired, foggy, or tingling?
It might not just be stress — it could be a Vitamin B12 deficiency. And a simple blood test could be all it takes to find out.
Vitamin B12 is your body’s natural energy booster. It keeps your brain sharp, supports your mood, powers your nerves, and helps produce red blood cells. When your levels drop, you feel it — in your energy, your focus, your mood, and even your muscles.
If you’re running on empty no matter how much rest you get, struggling with memory, feeling pins and needles, or finding it hard to concentrate, B12 could be to blame. This test is especially important if you’re vegetarian, vegan, or taking medications like metformin or omeprazole, which can interfere with how your body absorbs B12.
Low B12 can cause symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, low mood, headaches, and tingling in your hands or feet. You might also experience a sore tongue, mouth ulcers, or muscle weakness. And even if you haven’t developed full-blown anaemia, your nervous system and immune health could still be affected.
So what causes B12 deficiency? For many people, it’s diet — especially if they don’t eat animal products like meat, eggs, or dairy. But even if your diet includes B12-rich foods, your body might not be absorbing it properly due to digestive issues or medications. Conditions like coeliac disease, Crohn’s, or thyroid problems can also reduce B12 absorption.
B12 is naturally found in foods such as liver, red meat, shellfish, eggs, and cheese. It’s not found in plants, so if you’re on a plant-based diet, fortified foods or supplements are your only sources — and it’s easy to fall short without realising.
Don’t ignore the signs. A quick, accurate Vitamin B12 Blood Test can help explain your symptoms and guide your next steps. Whether you need a dietary tweak, a supplement, or medical advice, this test puts you in control of your energy, clarity, and wellbeing.
How often should I have a Vitamin B12 blood test?
We recommend checking your Vitamin B12 levels annually unless you experience any health changes or commence a weight loss programme which involves a restricted diet.
Our Nurses visit your Home or Work to take your blood.
Pick a time and date to suit you.
Your results are available online within days of your blood being taken.
Other Questions
- Family history of Type 2 diabetes
- Overweight
- Obese
- Tiredness
- Excessive thirst
- Excessive need to urinate
- Genital itching
- Weight loss
This blood test is to check on:
- Vitamin B12
For best results (if medically suitable) it is advisable to fast (water is allowed) 12 hours prior to the test.
Collection method: Venous blood
Results available: 1-2 days after the sample has reached the laboratory.
Active Vitamin B12
The Vitamin B12 blood test measures the level of vitamin B12 (also known as cobalamin) circulating in your bloodstream. It helps assess whether your body has enough of this essential nutrient to support red blood cell production, brain function, and nerve health.
How it Works
1. Order a Test
Order your test, and then Answer the Questions about why you’re taking that test.
Our nurse will contact you for dates, so they can take your blood sample at your home.
Our nurse will then send your sample to our laboratory.
2. Our laboratory team run the tests
Our skilled laboratory staff conduct your blood tests in a clean and secure environment, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Each test follows strict protocols to maintain the highest quality standards.
3. Receive Your Results within 7 days
We will email you to inform you that your blood test results are ready.
The email will have a PDF report attached, sent directly to your inbox.
4. Monitor your levels over time
With regular ongoing tests and reports, you can track your results. The reports can be shared with your GP.
Check if you’re improving healthily or where changes could be made.
