Testing B-12 | Gold Standard

The Gold Standard for Testing B-12

One of the reasons we have rampant B-12 deficiencies is that the testing methods have not been accurate. Let’s take a look at the LEAD, GOLD, and SUPPORTING ROLE to the GOLD STANDARD methods for properly testing for B-12 Status.

The Lead Standard:

Blood Serum Vitamin B-12 Test

This run-of-the-mill test measures the level of B-12 in your blood, and often provides false positive or false negative results.

There is not an international agreement among medical professionals as to what a “normal” result is for this test, and many experts think the current level is much too low.

THE GOLD STANDARD

URINARY Methylmalonic Acid (MMA) Test*

This test can be done with urine or blood, and measures the amount of MMA present. If your MMA is elevated, this indicates a deficiency of B-12.

The Urinary MMA/Creatinine Ratio Test is the most accurate, with MMA being 40 times more concentrated in urine than in blood.

Also, the Urinary MMA Test does not produce false positives or false negatives as can happen with a serum MMA test.

**THIS IS THE TEST TO DETERMINE B-12 LEVELS.**

SUPPORTING ROLE TO THE GOLD STANDARD:

Homocysteine (Hcy) Test

This test measures the level of homocysteine (Hcy) in your blood. Buildup of Hcy in your blood is toxic to your cardiovascular system. High Hcy can create plaque formation, coronary artery disease, deep vein thromboses, stroke, myocardial infarctions, carotid and renal artery stenosis, among other cardiovascular events.

High levels of Hcy signal a B-12 and/or B6 deficiency. The homocysteine test is not imperative, but can help you and your health professional develop a better picture of your B-12 levels and overall health, including your risk for heart disease and other health challenges related to oxidative stress and inflammation.

Next, we are going to look at the appropriate ranges you should be looking for when getting the results back from these tests.