Vitamin B12 (Total)
Measures your B12 levels which are vital for energy, concentration, and nerve function. Ideal for vegetarians, vegans, or those with fatigue or memory issues. Helps ensure you maintain optimal levels.
- Description
- Why This Test?
- Uses of This Test
The Vitamin B12 (Total) blood test measures the level of vitamin B12 in your bloodstream. Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient involved in red blood cell production, nerve function, and energy metabolism.
Low vitamin B12 levels can develop gradually and may not cause immediate symptoms, but deficiency can have significant effects on blood health and the nervous system if left untreated. This test provides a reliable way to assess your vitamin B12 status and identify whether further investigation, dietary changes, or supplementation may be required
Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy blood cells and normal neurological function. It is particularly important for:
- Red blood cell production
- Nerve and brain health
- Energy metabolism
- DNA synthesis
Vitamin B12 deficiency is relatively common, especially in people who:
- Follow a vegetarian or vegan diet
- Have digestive conditions affecting absorption
- Take certain medications (such as metformin or acid-reducing medications)
- Are over the age of 50
Low levels may contribute to fatigue, weakness, numbness or tingling, poor concentration, memory issues, or anaemia. A blood test is the most reliable way to identify deficiency and guide appropriate treatment.
- Investigate fatigue or low energy
- Support plant-based or vegetarian diets
- Investigate neurological symptoms
- Assess unexplained anaemia
- Monitor vitamin B12 supplementation
What We Test
Biomarkers analysed by accredited UK laboratories
Biomarker Tested
Vitamins
- Vitamin B12 (Total)
Measures circulating vitamin B12 levels to help identify deficiency that may contribute to fatigue, anaemia, or neurological symptoms.
- Vitamin B12 (Total)
Home Finger-Prick Testing
Enjoy the convenience of testing from home with a simple, easy-to-use kit delivered straight to your door. Your kit includes clear instructions, sterile equipment, and a prepaid return envelope for sending your sample to the laboratory.
This option is ideal if you prefer flexibility, have a busy schedule, or want to check your health privately without visiting the clinic.
Results are processed by accredited laboratories, giving you the same clinical accuracy as an in-clinic test. Expect results within 72 hours!
Why Use This Service:
Perfect for busy schedules
Results within 72 hours
Delivery across the UK
Private & discreet
Avoid travelling to Preston
Cost effective alternative
In-Clinic Blood Testing At Longridge, Preston
If you’d rather leave everything to a qualified professional, our in-clinic blood testing service is the most comfortable and hands-off experience. Once you complete your order, we’ll contact you to arrange a convenient appointment time.
Your sample will be taken by a trained phlebotomist, making the process quick, smooth, and reassuring - especially if you’re nervous around blood or struggle with finger-prick tests.
We send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed so results can be expected within 72 hours.
Why Use This Service:
Hands-off, professional experience
High-quality samples for complex tests
No risk of “not enough sample”
Support at every step
No posting or packaging required
Convinient appointment times
Taking Charge Of Your Own Health Has Never Been Easier
Worried about your wellbeing?
If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or other issues, a comprehensive blood test may be the key to discovering potential underlying health problems.
Need to monitor a health condition?
Blood tests offer essential insights into various aspects of your health, from detecting deficiencies to evaluating immune functions.
Enhancing Performance and Fitness?
Whether you’re training for a sport or keeping track of your fitness progress, a blood test serves as an excellent foundation for your performance improvement journey.
All Our Tests Include:
No GP Referral
Order directly - no waiting for appointments
Fast Results
Detailed analysis within 72 hours
Doctor's Commentary
Expert interpretation of your results included
Secure & Confidential
Discreet service and consultations
Frequently Asked Questions
- Qualified Pharmacists
- Flexible Appointments
- Top Customer Service
How accurate are home finger-prick tests compared to clinic tests?
Our home finger-prick tests use the same accredited laboratories as our clinic tests. While clinic tests allow for more comprehensive panels, home tests are highly accurate for the parameters they measure.
Do I need a GP referral for a blood test?
No, you don’t need a GP referral. You can book directly with us for any blood test. We are a private clinic offering direct access to comprehensive blood testing.
How old do I have to be to have a blood test?
We will only draw blood from those aged 16 and above due to legal requirements.
How long does it take for the blood test results to come?
If you have used our clinic to complete a blood test, we send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed. If you have used a home test kit, then once your sample has been sent off the lab will analyse your sample. Results are usually received within 72 hours.
How do I perform the home finger-prick test?
Your home blood test kit will contain easy-to-follow instructions on how to take your own finger blood sample. If you have any concerns or questions prior to using the kit, please contact our phlebotomists who will be happy to assist.
How do I prepare for a blood test?
There is no preparation required prior to taking any of the blood tests. Please simply remember to stay hydrated prior to your appointment. This is to help your veins dilate better to enable a quick and efficient blood sample to be taken and reduce the risks of feeling faint following your blood test.
Please inform the phlebotomist before your test if you are currently taking any blood thinning medication.
Should I fast before my blood test?
Fasting is not required for most blood tests. However, if your profile includes cholesterol tests and you’ve previously had high levels, consider fasting for 8 hours beforehand. While not essential, fasting can provide more accurate results.
Note: Fasting means abstaining from any food and drink, except for water.