About vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 plays an important role in our body and is an essential vitamin that belongs to the water-soluble vitamins. That it is essential means that the body cannot produce it itself and must be ingested through the diet. There are two different types of Vitamin 12, an active form (often called Active B12) and an inactive form. The active form, which is bound to the protein transcobalamin, is the one that the cells of the body can use.
One of the most important functions of B12 is the production of DNA. If the body cannot produce DNA, the cells cannot divide, which is necessary for broken and malfunctioning cells to be replaced with new ones. B12 is also needed for the myelination of the nerves (formation of special fats that insulate the nerves) and for the breakdown of homocysteine that is formed naturally during protein metabolism.
Standard tests today measure the total amount of B12 in the body, which includes both inactive and active B12. This vitamin B12 test measures holotranscobalamin, which is the active form of B12 in the body. Active B12 is a safe marker to detect if there is a B12 deficiency as it has a higher sensitivity than MMA (methyl malonate).
B12 – special absorption capacity
B12 belongs to the water-soluble vitamins but is not really soluble in water or fat-soluble substances. The uptake of B12 into the body requires a special mechanism, the so-called intrinsic factor (IF). Intrinsic factor is produced by cells in the wall of the stomach and acts as a carrier for B12 into the blood. Intrinsic factor attaches to B12 and is transported up through the intestinal wall, through the blood and to the liver where it’s either stored or transported to parts of the body that need the vitamin.
B12 is stored in the liver and can be stored there for up to 20 years. Unlike other B vitamins, the body does not need a regular supply of B12 if the depot is full due to the liver’s storage capacity. At the same time, it is important to remember that certain groups of people are at high risk for a deficiency of B12. In addition to vegans, alcoholics and people who have undergone bariatric surgery are also at high risk of developing B12 deficiency. The reason is that these groups may have a reduced production of intrinsic factor and without this, the body cannot absorb B12 in the gut.
Vegans and B12 – deficiency
Vitamin B12 is naturally present in foods of animal origin, which means that vegans are at high risk of developing a deficiency. Common symptoms are fatigue, weakness, pale skin, heart palpitations and mental problems like depression and memory loss. Severe deficiency can lead to pernicious anemia (special type of anemia), neurological symptoms that manifest themselves in the form of tingling and muscle weakness and which can also turn into a so called “burning feet syndrome” (this is du to that myelin cannot form and isolate the nerves properly). For vegans, B12 supplements are essential. How low the levels are in the body largely depends on the depots that were stored in the liver at the time of the change to a vegan diet.
Before you start, you need to register your test. Your test kit contains a sticker with your unique test ID. Register your test ID at 
Wash your hands in hot water for about a minute. This will increase blood circulation in your fingers. Dry your hands. Doing a blood test without stimulating blood circulation might prove difficult, so please do not skip this step.
Disinfect your “test finger” with the supplied disinfectant paper. Wait a few seconds until the finger is completely dry.
Rotate the protective cover on the blood lancet to remove it. Use the extra lancet if you need to do another finger prick.
Place your hand on a flat surface. Put the lancet diagonally toward the test finger and press down the button. Make sure the lancet is pressed against the finger the whole time.
We recommend that you stand up at this stage to let the blood in your arm flow downward. Help the blood drops come out by massaging the finger toward the needle stick.
Transfer the blood drops into the test tube until the blood reaches the marked line. If it doesn’t reach the marked line, there won’t be enough blood for the lab to test. Please contact us if you have any trouble.
Place the sticker with your unique test ID on the test tube. Place the test tube inside the transport tube and seal.
Put the tubes in the enclosed envelope and send it to the lab the same day, preferably a Monday or Tuesday.
Sophie Martin –
With my energy levels dropping and having noticed some difficulty with memory, I decided to take this test. The process was simple and the results came back promptly. As suspected, my B12 levels are low. Now, I can work on addressing this deficiency. 🙂
Emily Davies –
I decided to use this test after months of feeling tired. It was easy to use, results came back fast. My B12 levels are low.
kitty –
The modern age comes with many advantages, but it’s also fraught with health complications, many of which we often overlook. One of the common overlooked aspects of health is the vital nutrient – Vitamin B12. As a vegan, ensuring I get the required amount of B12 has always been challenging. So, when I stumbled upon the Vitamin B12 Test, I was instantly intrigued. The kit was delivered promptly, with detailed yet straightforward instructions. Taking the sample was a breeze, and the pre-addressed envelope made sending it back hassle-free. The anticipation while awaiting results was indeed high, but the detailed report I received surpassed all expectations. The results were alarming, showcasing my significant B12 deficiency, something I had suspected but never confirmed. Guided by these results, I worked on a plan to incorporate B12 supplements and fortified foods into my diet. Fast forward a few weeks, and the difference was evident. I no longer felt that midday fatigue, my concentration improved, and overall, I felt rejuvenated. This test was not just an eye-opener but a life-changer for me. In conclusion, the Vitamin B12 Test is not just another health fad. It’s a necessity, especially if you’re someone who follows a restrictive diet or just wants to ensure optimal health.
Stella Thomas –
This test was straightforward, got my results fast. I’m B12 deficient.
Maria Santos –
I’ve been having mood swings and fatigue, so I used this test. It was straightforward to use and I got the results fast. Turns out, my B12 levels are deficient.
Amandla –
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining optimal health requires more than just a balanced diet and exercise. It necessitates a keen understanding of your body’s specific needs. I realized this when I began feeling inexplicably fatigued and lacked concentration at work. That’s when a friend recommended the Vitamin B12 Test. The ordering process was seamless, and the kit was dispatched with clear instructions. The process of collecting the sample was quite easy, and I had it shipped back the same day. My results, detailed and straightforward, indicated a B12 deficiency. Armed with this newfound knowledge, I started taking supplements and modified my diet. In a few weeks, the change was palpable. My energy levels soared, the brain fog lifted, and I felt a renewed zest for life. I’d recommend the Vitamin B12 Test to anyone feeling off-balance in their health. It’s comprehensive, user-friendly, and could potentially change the course of your health journey. 🙂 🙂
Aiden Miller –
Found my B12 is low. Very informative.
Brandon –
Easy-to-use B12 test. Results were enlightening. Enhanced energy and mental clarity after addressing deficiency.
Chelsea –
My constant tiredness, despite a seemingly healthy lifestyle, was puzzling. I needed answers. The Vitamin B12 Test was recommended by my nutritionist. Receiving the kit, following the steps, and sending it back was straightforward. The results were an eye-opener, showing a marked B12 deficiency. With targeted supplements and dietary changes, my fatigue vanished, replaced by renewed vigor. This test was a game-changer.
Robert –
I’ve always prided myself on maintaining a balanced diet. Yet, I constantly felt drained and mentally exhausted. Seeking answers, I tried the Vitamin B12 Test. The test kit’s clear instructions made the process effortless. But it was the results that were truly enlightening – a glaring B12 deficiency. Acting on this information and incorporating B12-rich foods and supplements transformed my energy levels and mental clarity. This test is invaluable for those seeking better health.
Amelia –
nice! 🙂
Neil Morgan –
Revealed my deficiency. Feel revitalized post-adjustments.