Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
11
Duration
10 min
Results
48 hours
Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D measurement. At €18.65 (plus blood draw), an affordable seasonal screen for anyone living at Leipzig's latitude (51°N) where UV-driven synthesis is limited October through March.
25-hydroxyvitamin D is the standard biomarker for assessing vitamin D status. It reflects combined input from cutaneous UV-B synthesis, dietary intake, and supplementation. At Leipzig's latitude (51°N), effective skin synthesis of vitamin D occurs only from approximately April through September, and even then is limited by clothing, sunscreen use, and indoor lifestyles. Estimates suggest 60–80% of Central European adults have suboptimal vitamin D levels during winter months. The clinical impact extends beyond the well-known role in calcium absorption and bone mineralisation. Vitamin D receptors are expressed in immune cells, muscle tissue, cardiovascular endothelium, and brain neurons — supporting its associations with immune regulation, muscle strength, cardiovascular health, and mood. Deficiency is defined as below 20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L), insufficiency as 20–30 ng/mL, and optimal as 30–50 ng/mL. Levels above 100 ng/mL carry toxicity risk from supplementation (not achievable through sunlight alone). The test is particularly relevant for: individuals with limited sun exposure, dark-skinned individuals at northern latitudes, older adults (cutaneous synthesis declines with age), obese individuals (vitamin D is sequestered in adipose tissue), and anyone experiencing unexplained fatigue, muscle weakness, or bone pain. Supplementation does not need to be stopped before testing — the test measures current status including supplementation, which is the clinically relevant question.
Key Details
- Biomarker
- Vitamin D 25-OH
- Results
- 1-2 days
- Total cost
- ~€23
Who Is This For?
Seasonal screening, supplement dosing, fatigue investigation, bone health, immune support
What's Included
Preparation Required
No fasting required. Supplements do not need to be stopped — test measures current status.
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.
€18.65 + €4.19 blood draw = €22.84 total. GOÄ 1.0x rate.
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood (venous draw)
- Duration
- 10 min
- Results
- 48 hours