Quest Diagnostics Depression Nutrient Deficiency Test Panel
Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
12
Duration
30 min
Results
4 days
Comprehensive blood test measuring 11 nutrients potentially affected by depression.
This panel assesses levels of vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B9 (folate), vitamin B12 (cobalamin), vitamin E, chromium, iron, ferritin, magnesium, selenium, and zinc in your blood. These nutrients play crucial roles in energy production, brain function, cell health, and immune response. Deficiencies can be linked to depression and other health issues. Testing helps you and your doctor determine if supplementation is necessary to improve overall health and address potential nutrient deficiencies related to depression.
Key Details
- Nutrients Tested
- 1–30+ (varies by panel)
- Fasting Required
- Varies by specific test
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Turnaround
- 2–5 business days
- Common Use
- Deficiency screening, supplementation guidance
Who Is This For?
Vegetarians and vegans (at higher risk of B12, iron, and zinc deficiency). Older adults, as nutrient absorption decreases with age. Anyone on restrictive diets or with digestive conditions affecting absorption. People experiencing unexplained fatigue, brain fog, poor wound healing, or hair loss. Athletes with high nutrient demands from training.
What's Included
Preparation Required
Fasting for 8–10 hours is recommended for some nutrient tests but not all — check with your provider. Continue taking your regular supplements unless told otherwise (the test measures your steady-state levels). Morning draws are preferred for consistent results.
Biomarkers Tested
12Essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function. Thiamine deficiency can cause beriberi (nerve damage) and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Common in chronic alcohol use and malabsorption conditions.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is important for protein metabolism, cognitive development, and immune function. Deficiency can lead to anemia and neurological issues.
Vitamin B9 (Folate) is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair. Low levels can lead to anemia and other health issues.
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.
Imbalances in gut pH influence short-chain fatty acid production and their effects.
An essential trace mineral in its trivalent form (Cr³⁺), important for insulin signalling and glucose metabolism. Hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺) from industrial exposure is carcinogenic. Testing measures total chromium levels.
A mineral essential for oxygen transport (in hemoglobin), energy production, and immune function. Serum iron measures the amount circulating in blood, but ferritin and TIBC provide a more complete picture of iron status.
The primary iron storage protein. Ferritin reflects total body iron stores and is the first marker to drop in iron deficiency. However, ferritin also rises with inflammation, infection, and liver disease, which can mask true iron deficiency.
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.
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.
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.
+ $6.00 Physician Service Fee
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Duration
- 30 min
- Results
- 4 days