Folate

Folate, also known as folic acid or vitamin B9, plays several important roles in the body, including in making DNA, which is your unique genetic code. An inadequate level of folate in the body, called folate deficiency, can lead to anemia and other changes to your health. Anemia may cause symptoms like weakness, shortness of breath, and mental changes.

A folate test may be ordered after an abnormal blood test result or if your health care provider suspects low folate levels are creating health problems. Testing for folate requires a sample of blood.