Folate testing

[Kriticat]

Im going to pay to have my folate levels checked, I'm currently taking a b complex, should I stop taking it before the test? All my other vit levels are tested and good apart from very low zinc... but endo says that suggests a gut absorption problem (I'm on 50mg a day and still just within range)

Thanks for any help

[SeasideSusie Remembering]

Kriticat

As B Complex contains biotin, and taking biotin can cause false results in any blood test when biotin is used in the testing procedure, we always suggest leaving it off for 3-7 days before any blood test. 3-4 days should be enough for the small amount in a B Complex (eg 400-500mcg) and 7 days for the large amount in a stand alone biotin supplement or hair/nail supplememt (eg 5-10mg).

[Kriticat in reply to SeasideSusie]

Thanks SeasideSusie , the doc said a week for TSH, I didnt realise biotin affected other results, but I'd like to know what my folate level is without supplementation... it has never been tested and my endo says she doesn't usually test for any b vits other than b12. I pay for all my tests anyway, as don't live in UK, so will get it done on Thursday.