What is a vitamin B test?This test measures the amount of one or more B vitamins in your blood or urine. B vitamins are nutrients the body needs so that it can perform a variety of essential functions. These include:Maintaining normal metabolism (the process of how your body uses food and energy)Making healthy blood cellsHelping the nervous system work properlyReducing risk of heart diseaseHelping to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL)There are several types of B vitamins. These vitamins, also known as the B vitamin complex, include the following:B1, thiamineB2, riboflavinB3, niacinB5, pantothenic acidB6, pyridoxal phosphateB7, biotinB9, folic acid (or folate) and B12, cobalamin. These two B vitamins are often measured together in a test called vitamin B12 and folate.Vitamin B deficiencies are rare in the United States, because many everyday foods are fortified with B vitamins. These foods include cereals, breads, and pasta. Also, B vitamins are found naturally in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables and whole grains. But if you do have a deficiency in any of the B vitamins, it can cause serious health problems.Other names: vitamin B testing, vitamin B complex, thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxal phosphate (B6), biotin (B7), vitamin B12 and folate
