A peek at the top nutrient and vitamin deficiency assessments
- Top pick overall: LetsGetChecked Micronutrient Test | Jump to review
- Best for energy slumps: LetsGetChecked Essential Vitamin Test | Jump to review
- Best in-clinic assessment: LabCorp Vitamin Deficiency Test | Jump to review
- Best for vitamin D: Everlywell At-Home Vitamin D Test | Jump to review
Top nutrient and vitamin deficiency evaluations
Uncovering the Top 4 Vitamin Insufficiency Assessments in 2024
Medical News Today has tested some of the services below. Reviewers may have received some tests from the companies for free, which does not influence their review. All opinions are the reviewers’ own.
Comparing vitamin deficiency assessments
The table below compares each test for vitamin deficiency in this article in terms of collection method, price, result turnaround time, and more.
| Number of vitamins and minerals | Collection method | Results delivery method | Time to receive results after submission | Price || --- | --- | --- | --- | --- || LGC Micronutrient Test | 7 | finger prick | online portal | 2 to 5 days | $179 || LGC | 3 | finger prick | online portal | 2 to 5 days | $109 || Labcorp Vitamin Deficiency Test | 3 | blood sample | online portal | 1 day | $169 || Everlywell At-Home Vitamin D Test | 1 | finger prick | online portal | 2 to 5 days | *$99* |
LGC Micronutrient Test
How we selected the top vitamin deficiency assessments
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We analyzed 20 vitamin assessments to find the finest 4 options
finger prick
We selected these vitamin deficiency assessments based on criteria we believe are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency.
online portal
As part of our evaluation process, we consider:
2 to 5 days
- the product’s materials, ingredients, and overall quality
- any third-party certifications
- the company’s reputation and business practices
- any lab test outcomes
- marketing claims
$179
Read more about how we evaluate products and brands.
How to choose a vitamin deficiency assessment
LGC
People may want to consider these elements before purchasing an assessment online:
3
- The assessed nutrients: Many companies provide comprehensive panels testing various vitamins and minerals. However, some tests only check the levels of certain vitamins. A person should pick the test that best fits their needs.
- The collection method: Anyone uncomfortable drawing a finger-prick blood sample may prefer a test that relies on a saliva sample instead. However, many vitamin and mineral assessments require a blood sample.
- Fasting: Some assessments require a person to fast before providing a sample. Individuals should check the fasting period before taking the assessment. These assessments may also require people to stop taking certain supplements for a few days before collecting a sample.
- The timing of results: Some assessments have faster turnaround times, but these may be more expensive.
- Price: Different at-home vitamin deficiency assessments fit different budgets. Those that test for a wider range of vitamins may cost more.
finger prick
Common signs and symptoms of a vitamin deficiency
online portal
The specific vitamin deficiency symptoms a person experiences will depend on which vitamin deficiency a person has.
2 to 5 days
For example, a vitamin C deficiency may:
$109
- dental issues
- bone fractures
- dry eyes
- hair loss
An iron deficiency can cause fatigue, while a lack of vitamin D can result in:
Labcorp Vitamin Deficiency Test
- muscle twitches
- fatigue
- osteoporosis
3
Vitamin assessments screen the levels of vitamins and nutrients in the blood. In-person assessments will likely require a healthcare professional to draw the blood using a needle. In contrast, at-home assessments will provide a lancet for people to collect their own samples.
blood sample
A person can discuss their symptoms with a doctor before getting a vitamin deficiency assessment.
online portal
How accurate are at-home deficiency assessments?
1 day
The FDA states that at-home assessments can effectively detect health conditions and monitor existing ones. However, it advises people that they should not replace doctors' appointments with at-home assessments.
$169
The most reputable companies offering at-home assessments send their customers' samples to CLIA certified labs. These are the labs that hospitals and doctors' offices use, which may suggest the sample analysis will be as accurate as it is for tests that doctors administer.
However, people risk making mistakes or contaminating their samples when they collect them at home. Those uncomfortable collecting their sample may wish to visit an in-person testing center.
Everlywell At-Home Vitamin D Test
What are the most common vitamin deficiencies?
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When a person develops a nutritional deficiency, the body may produce symptoms, some of which can be unnoticeable. Although an at-home test should not substitute for a doctor's or registered dietitian's advice, it may indicate missing nutrients in a person's diet.
finger prick
Although the CDC indicates that a person must aim to meet their vitamin and mineral needs through diet, sometimes they may need a multivitamin to supplement their intake.
online portal
The CDC lists several of the most common deficiencies in the United States. These include:
2 to 5 days
- vitamin B6
- iron
- vitamin D
- vitamin B12
- vitamin E
- folate
- vitamin A
- vitamin C
$99
Learn more about vitamins and how they work.
Who should get tested for vitamin deficiency?
A study showed specific groups of people with a higher risk of developing vitamin or mineral deficiencies. The groups included:
- undernourished people
- older adults
- pregnant people
- adolescents
- young children
The researchers suggest addressing vitamin deficiencies by enhancing dietary choices and supplement usage.
If someone suspects having a vitamin deficiency, they should consult a physician about undergoing a test and discuss the outcomes with them.
Using an At-Home Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency Test
For additional queries, trustworthy at-home tests will provide guidelines and a customer service hotline.
Most vitamin deficiency tests require a blood sample. The company should include all necessary equipment, including a lancet, within the original package.
Users will need to fill out a form with personal information first. Then, they can utilize the lancet to obtain a drop of blood.
The company should supply a return envelope with prepaid shipping. After sending their sample, users can mail the envelope.
Results are typically delivered within a week of the lab receiving the samples. Depending on the company, users may need to log in or utilize a smartphone app to view their results.
Some companies may provide follow-up advice. Others might recommend consulting a healthcare professional to interpret the results.
What to Do with Vitamin Deficiency Test Results
If a test indicates a vitamin deficiency, users should contact a doctor. It may also be beneficial to inform a doctor if the test does not show a specific deficiency.
If a person receives treatment from a doctor, they may wish to conduct the test again after their treatment ends to monitor their vitamin levels.
Before making health decisions based on at-home test results, users should consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vitamin Deficiency Tests
Vitamin deficiencies can be detected through blood tests. These tests might involve a lab technician drawing blood from a vein in the arm or individuals conducting finger-prick tests at home. Medical laboratory scientists will then analyze the blood sample to measure vitamin and mineral levels.
Vitamins and minerals are vital for health, and people typically obtain the vitamins they require through their diet. The 13 essential vitamins are vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, as well as thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, B6, B12, and folate.
Vitamin deficiencies can manifest in various symptoms, which will depend on the vitamin the person is lacking.
A full vitamin panel is known as a comprehensive vitamin and nutrition deficiency panel.
Yes, vitamin deficiency tests can be obtained from doctors or at-home testing companies like LetsGetChecked or Everlywell.
A doctor or healthcare professional will analyze test results to diagnose a vitamin or mineral deficiency.
They will then be able to provide advice on whether or not a person should adjust or supplement their diet with the necessary vitamins.
Conclusion
At-home vitamin deficiency tests measure vitamin and mineral levels in a blood sample. They offer convenience but can be costly.
Individuals with concerns about a deficiency should consider consulting a doctor, especially if a test returns a positive result. A doctor can check for underlying health conditions, conduct further tests, and provide any necessary treatment.
After analyzing various vitamin deficiency assessments, we found that the LetsGetChecked Micronutrient Test, which checks for 7 vitamins and minerals, stands out due to its comprehensive approach and online result delivery. If you're specifically looking to address energy slumps, the LetsGetChecked Essential Vitamin Test, which focuses on 3 vitamins, may be more suitable. Remember, the best assessment for you depends on your unique nutritional needs and preferences, such as the number of vitamins and minerals you want to check, the collection method you're comfortable with, and the price you're willing to pay.
