Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
11
Duration
10 min
Results
3 days
Measures the four most clinically significant B vitamins — B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin). B vitamins are water-soluble cofactors essential for energy production, nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation. Deficiency in any one causes overlapping symptoms of fatigue, cognitive impairment, and neurological dysfunction, making targeted testing valuable for identifying which specific vitamin needs attention.
B vitamins work as cofactors in hundreds of enzymatic reactions, and their water-soluble nature means the body cannot store large reserves — dietary intake must be consistent. This panel tests the four B vitamins most commonly deficient in clinical practice. Vitamin B12 is essential for myelin sheath maintenance (nerve insulation), DNA synthesis, and red blood cell maturation. Deficiency causes megaloblastic anaemia and irreversible neurological damage if prolonged. Risk groups include vegans, vegetarians, those on metformin or proton pump inhibitors, and older adults with reduced absorption. B9 (folate) partners with B12 in DNA synthesis and is critical for neural tube development in pregnancy. Deficiency also causes megaloblastic anaemia. Vitamin B6 is required for neurotransmitter synthesis (serotonin, dopamine, GABA), immune function, and homocysteine metabolism. B1 (thiamine) is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function — deficiency is more common than recognised, particularly in those with high alcohol intake, diabetes, or bariatric surgery history. This panel costs less than testing these vitamins individually and provides the data needed to guide targeted supplementation rather than a generic B-complex approach.
Key Details
- Markers
- 4 B vitamins
- Focus
- Energy + nerve function
- Collection fee
- +A$20
Who Is This For?
Fatigue, brain fog, vegetarians, vegans, metformin users, older adults, targeted supplementation guidance
What's Included
Preparation Required
No fasting required. If taking B vitamin supplements, note this when reviewing results — supplementation affects levels.
Panel Categories
Biomarkers Tested
11A trace mineral essential for iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, and antioxidant defense. The copper/zinc ratio is an emerging marker of inflammation and oxidative stress. Both deficiency and excess can cause problems.
Essential for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell formation. Folate deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia and, during pregnancy, increases the risk of neural tube defects. Works closely with vitamin B12.
Involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions including energy production, muscle function, and nerve signaling. Magnesium deficiency is common and associated with muscle cramps, anxiety, insomnia, and increased cardiovascular risk.
A trace mineral crucial for thyroid hormone metabolism, antioxidant defense (via selenoproteins), and immune function. Selenium deficiency can impair thyroid function and increase susceptibility to viral infections.
A fat-soluble vitamin essential for vision, immune function, skin health, and cell growth. Both deficiency and excess can cause health problems. Levels are tightly regulated by the liver.
Essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation. B12 deficiency can cause anemia, neuropathy, fatigue, and cognitive impairment. Common in vegans, vegetarians, older adults, and those taking metformin or acid-reducing medications.
A powerful water-soluble antioxidant essential for collagen synthesis, immune function, and iron absorption. Vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy. It also supports wound healing and protects against oxidative stress.
The best indicator of overall vitamin D status. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Deficiency is extremely common, especially in northern latitudes, and linked to increased disease risk.
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage. Vitamin E works synergistically with vitamin C and selenium. Deficiency is rare but can cause nerve and muscle damage.
Essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism. Vitamin K activates proteins needed for blood coagulation and calcium regulation in bones. Deficiency increases bleeding risk and may contribute to osteoporosis.
An essential trace mineral involved in immune function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and testosterone production. Zinc deficiency impairs immune response, delays wound healing, and can cause hair loss and taste changes.
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood (venous draw)
- Duration
- 10 min
- Results
- 3 days