What Vitamin B12 tells you
Nutritional markers covering common vitamins and minerals. Levels can vary with diet, lifestyle, and individual factors, and are best interpreted with your doctor.
Which Honed panels include Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is measured in the Essential Panel and Performance Panel. Every sample is collected at a pathology collection centre and processed at a NATA-accredited laboratory against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure online report.
Why Vitamin B12 matters
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin essential for red blood cell formation, nerve function, and DNA synthesis. It is obtained exclusively from animal products (meat, fish, dairy, eggs) and fortified foods; plant-based sources do not naturally contain B12. B12 is absorbed in the stomach and terminal ileum with the help of intrinsic factor. Deficiency impairs red blood cell production (causing anaemia), nerve function, and cognitive health. Vegetarian and vegan athletes are at higher risk of B12 deficiency.
The range explained
Low levels
Low serum B12 (below 200 pmol/L) indicates deficiency and impairs red blood cell production and nerve function.
Normal range
Reference range: 200–900 pmol/L. Higher values (above 400 pmol/L) are generally considered optimal.
High levels
Elevated serum B12 from supplementation is not clinically concerning.
What affects Vitamin B12
- Training: Training does not directly affect B12; however, B12 is essential for red blood cell production supporting aerobic performance.
- Nutrition: B12 is found exclusively in animal products and fortified foods. Vegetarian and vegan athletes must supplement or consume fortified foods to maintain adequate B12.
- Sleep: Sleep does not directly affect B12.
- Stress: Chronic stress does not directly affect B12.
When to retest
Every 12 months; more frequently for vegetarian/vegan athletes.
Why athletes care
Vegetarian and vegan athletes should monitor B12 because deficiency impairs red blood cell production and aerobic performance; supplementation is often necessary.
Related vitamins & minerals markers
FAQ
What does the Vitamin B12 blood test measure?
A vitamin involved in nerve function and red blood cell production. Levels can be lower on some diets, such as plant-based eating, and are reviewed in context.
Which Honed Health panels include Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is included in the Essential and Performance panels.
What unit is Vitamin B12 measured in?
Vitamin B12 is reported in pmol/L, measured at NATA-accredited laboratories against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure report.