Quest Diagnostics Low Carb Diet Vitamin Deficiency Test Panel
Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
14
Duration
30 min
Results
3 days
Comprehensive blood test measuring 13 nutrients to identify potential deficiencies related to low-carb diets.
This panel assesses vitamin B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), B12 (cobalamin), D, E, calcium, B9 (folate), ferritin, iodine, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc levels. It helps determine if a low-carb diet (like Atkins) is causing nutritional deficiencies. Identifying these deficiencies allows for dietary adjustments or supplementation to improve overall health and well-being. The test is crucial for individuals concerned about nutrient intake on restrictive diets. Early detection of deficiencies prevents long-term health issues.
Key Details
- Biomarkers
- 1 marker (25-OH vitamin D)
- Fasting Required
- No
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Turnaround
- 24–72 hours
- Optimal Range
- 40–60 ng/mL (100–150 nmol/L)
- Common Use
- Deficiency screening, supplementation monitoring
Who Is This For?
Anyone living in regions with limited sunlight or who spends most time indoors. People experiencing bone pain, muscle weakness, or frequent illness. Those with darker skin (melanin reduces vitamin D synthesis). Older adults, as the skin's ability to produce vitamin D decreases with age. Anyone supplementing with vitamin D who wants to verify they're in the optimal range.
What's Included
Preparation Required
No fasting required. No special preparation needed. If you supplement with vitamin D, continue your normal dosage — the test is measuring your steady-state level, not an acute response.
Biomarkers Tested
14Essential 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.
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.
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.
Imbalances in gut pH influence short-chain fatty acid production and their effects.
The most abundant mineral in the body, essential for bone health, muscle contraction, nerve function, and blood clotting. Blood calcium is tightly regulated by parathyroid hormone and vitamin D. Abnormal levels can indicate parathyroid disorders.
Vitamin B9 (Folate) is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair. Low levels can lead to anemia and other health issues.
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.
Iodine is an essential trace element and an integral component of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones are required for normal growth and development of tissues and maturation of our bodies. Approximately 80% of iodine is excreted in the urine, making it a good marker of the previous day's intake.
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.
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 critical electrolyte for heart rhythm, muscle contractions, and nerve function. Both high and low potassium can cause dangerous cardiac arrhythmias. Levels are influenced by kidney function, medications, and diet.
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 thyroid hormone production and overall metabolic regulation.
+ $6.00 Physician Service Fee
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Duration
- 30 min
- Results
- 3 days