Vitamin B1 and B6 blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Thiamine, vitamin B1, helps the body convert carbohydrate into energy and is especially important for the brain, nerves and heart. The body stores only small amounts, so levels can fall within weeks if intake is poor. Low thiamine is more likely with heavy alcohol use, prolonged vomiting, eating disorders, weight loss surgery and some diuretic medicines.

Pyridoxine, vitamin B6, is involved in protein metabolism, making neurotransmitters and forming red blood cells. B6 deficiency is uncommon in people with a varied diet but can occur with some medicines and conditions. B6 is also found in many supplements, energy drinks and fortified foods, and long-term high intake can cause nerve symptoms, so measuring it can be useful in both directions.

The price includes your sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have numbness, tingling or burning feelings in your hands or feet.
• You take a B complex, multivitamin or energy products with added B6.
• You drink alcohol regularly or have recently cut down.
• You have had weight loss surgery, prolonged vomiting or a very restricted diet.
• Your practitioner has asked to check B1 and B6 after other tests were normal.

Understanding your result

The laboratory reference range is shown next to every result on your report. Low B1 can be linked with fatigue, irritability, poor memory and nerve or heart symptoms, while severe deficiency is a medical emergency in some settings. Low B6 can contribute to anaemia, mouth soreness and nerve symptoms. A high B6 level most often reflects supplement use and, if sustained, can itself cause tingling or numbness.

Unexpected findings are discussed with you in context and are not a diagnosis in themselves. Your practitioner will look at your diet, supplements and symptoms before suggesting any changes.

Preparing for your test

Because recent meals and supplements can affect B1 and B6 levels, we suggest a morning appointment before you eat, with water allowed, and we confirm any fasting advice when you book. Pause B vitamin supplements and energy drinks with added vitamins for at least 24 to 48 hours unless your doctor has told you to continue them. Tell us about any medicines you take when you book.

For a wider view of B vitamins, the Vitamin B Profile adds B12, active B12 and folate, and our Nutritional and Digestive Health check looks at absorption more broadly. You will find the full range on our page of every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a vitamin B1 and B6 test in Chiswick?

The Vitamin B1 and B6 test costs £289 at Omnia Lifestyle in Chiswick. This includes your blood sample, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Why test B6 if I already take supplements?

Supplements can push B6 above the healthy range, and high levels over time can affect the nerves. Testing helps you decide whether your dose is right.

Who is most at risk of low thiamine?

People who drink heavily, have had weight loss surgery, have prolonged vomiting or follow a very limited diet are at higher risk. Your practitioner can discuss your own situation.

Will this tell me why I have tingling?

It checks two possible causes. Tingling can have many others, such as low B12, diabetes or thyroid problems, so your practitioner may suggest further tests or a GP visit.