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Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 Blood Test: Are Your Levels Optimal?

Vitamin B12 is considered especially important for older adults, as absorption may decline with age. Low levels have been associated with cognitive changes and anaemia. Regular monitoring may help healthcare providers support healthy ageing.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Male Your group

pmol/l

Low 145 Normal 569 High

Female Your group

pmol/l

Low 145 Normal 569 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

Vitamin B12: what this test measures

This test measures the total vitamin B12 level in your blood, expressed in pmol/l. It may help assess whether your body has adequate B12 for blood cell production and nervous system maintenance. Your healthcare provider can place results in clinical context.

Vitamin B12: why this value matters

For adults over 60, B12 absorption from food may decrease due to changes in stomach acid production. This may increase the risk of deficiency, potentially affecting cognitive function and energy. Healthcare providers may recommend regular monitoring and supplementation.

Vitamin B12: when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended when experiencing persistent fatigue, numbness or tingling, difficulty concentrating, or mood changes. Healthcare providers may also suggest testing for vegetarians, vegans, older adults, or those with gastrointestinal conditions affecting absorption.

Vitamin B12: symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Some people with low vitamin B12 may experience fatigue, weakness, pale skin, numbness or tingling in extremities, and difficulty with balance. Mood changes and memory difficulties have also been reported. A healthcare provider can help identify the underlying cause.

High Levels

Elevated vitamin B12 levels may sometimes occur with supplementation or certain medical conditions. While generally considered less concerning than low levels, persistently high B12 may warrant investigation. Your healthcare provider can advise on appropriate follow-up.

Vitamin B12: what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low B12 may cause fatigue, neurological symptoms, and anemia. Consider B12 supplementation (1000 mcg daily) or injections if severely deficient.

If High

High B12 is generally not concerning and may indicate recent supplementation. No action needed unless symptomatic.

Female

If Low

Low B12 may cause fatigue, neurological symptoms, and anemia. Consider B12 supplementation (1000 mcg daily) or injections if severely deficient.

If High

High B12 is generally not concerning and may indicate recent supplementation. No action needed unless symptomatic.

Vitamin B12: lifestyle and this value

Foods considered rich in B12 include meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Those following plant-based diets may benefit from fortified foods or supplements. Absorption may decrease with age, so regular monitoring could be helpful. Discuss options with your healthcare provider.

Vitamin B12: frequently asked questions

Who is most at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency?

People following vegetarian or vegan diets, older adults, and those with gastrointestinal conditions such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease may be at higher risk. Healthcare providers can help determine your individual risk and recommend appropriate monitoring.

Can vitamin B12 deficiency cause permanent damage?

Prolonged B12 deficiency may potentially lead to irreversible neurological damage in some cases. Early detection and treatment are generally considered important. If you suspect a deficiency, consult your healthcare provider promptly for evaluation and guidance.

How is vitamin B12 deficiency typically treated?

Treatment may include oral supplements, dietary changes, or in some cases injections, depending on the cause and severity. Your healthcare provider can recommend the most appropriate approach based on your individual circumstances and test results.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

Vitamins & Blood

Blood Test Iron, Vitamins

Complete blood count, iron status, vitamin B12 and vitamin D in one panel — eating a lot less also means fewer nutrients coming in.

Iron (Serum) Transferrin Saturation Vitamin B12 Vitamin D (25-OH) Ferritin Transferrin Basic Blood Count

€149,-

Heart & Metabolism

GLP-1 Extended Panel

The 6-month measurement: everything from the check-in plus insulin, ApoB and your nutrients — especially relevant if you have been eating much less for a while.

Insulin (Fasting) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) HDL Cholesterol HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Vitamin B12 Ferritin Potassium Sodium Glucose (Fasting) Total Cholesterol Albumin Lipase Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) Triglycerides

€196,-

Heart & Metabolism

GLP-1 Baseline Panel

Your starting point before the first injection: blood sugar, cholesterol, pancreas, liver, kidneys, thyroid and nutrients in one measurement.

Insulin (Fasting) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) HDL Cholesterol HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Vitamin B12 Ferritin Potassium Sodium Glucose (Fasting) Total Cholesterol Albumin Lipase Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) Triglycerides Bilirubin (Direct) Bilirubin (Indirect)

€214,-