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Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices? We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. At-home vitamin deficiency tests can help people understand if they have a vitamin deficiency. The best vitamin deficiency tests can be a convenient and discreet way to check vitamin levels at home.
Medical News Today has tested some of the products below. Reviewers may have received some products from the manufacturers for free, which does not influence their review. All opinions are the reviewers’ own.
Best overall 4.7 (16.6k+) from Trustpilot Collection method: finger prick Results in: 2–5 days Tests for: vitamins D, E, and B12, copper, and selenium Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only, offers itemized receipt for reimbursement Follow-up guidance: free nurse assistance to discuss positive results Use code “HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off .
MNT's review
The LetsGetChecked micronutrient test is a finger-prick test that a person can carry out at home.
The test can check for deficiencies in a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including:
When a person gets their test kit, they must register it online, follow instructions to collect a sample, and return it for testing. Once the lab receives the test, LetsGetChecked states a person can expect to receive their results within a few days.
LetsGetChecked states it uses Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certified labs to test samples. The company offers follow-up support if necessary.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked .
What our tester says “I took this test to better understand my deficiencies of key vitamins and minerals to help inform my diet.
If you are eager to get deeper insights into you Vitamin B12, E, copper and more, this is a great test to understand where you may be deficient. It is a easy experience and LetsGetChecked does a great job of communicating along the way.
It took 45 minutes to complete this test. I took my time to ensure I had everything laid out and followed the directions to get the best test results possible. It took around 25 minutes to fill the test tube with my blood sample.
“I have used other LetsGetChecked tests before, and I think there could be more education and support regarding your results. Each section shares the levels and then has a “results explained” section, which shares a small blurb. I would love to learn more about that reading, what influences and even if normal, how to maintain the right vitamin levels.”
— Nick Trull, Healthline Director of Business Development
“I took this test to better understand my deficiencies of key vitamins and minerals to help inform my diet.
If you are eager to get deeper insights into you Vitamin B12, E, copper and more, this is a great test to understand where you may be deficient. It is a easy experience and LetsGetChecked does a great job of communicating along the way.
It took 45 minutes to complete this test. I took my time to ensure I had everything laid out and followed the directions to get the best test results possible. It took around 25 minutes to fill the test tube with my blood sample.
“I have used other LetsGetChecked tests before, and I think there could be more education and support regarding your results. Each section shares the levels and then has a “results explained” section, which shares a small blurb. I would love to learn more about that reading, what influences and even if normal, how to maintain the right vitamin levels.”
— Nick Trull, Healthline Director of Business Development
Pros & cons fast turnaround time tests for a wide range of vitamins and minerals the kits are easy to use some people may not like doing a finger-prick test the test is expensive some customers report they received kits close to their expiration dates others found it hard to get their results fast turnaround time tests for a wide range of vitamins and minerals the kits are easy to use some people may not like doing a finger-prick test the test is expensive some customers report they received kits close to their expiration dates others found it hard to get their results Product details Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: free shipping Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: free shipping Best for fatigue 4.7 (16.6k+) from Trustpilot Collection method: finger prick Results in: 2–5 days Tests for: vitamin B12, vitamin D, and vitamin E Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only, offers itemized receipt for reimbursement Follow-up guidance: free nurse assistance to discuss positive results Use code “HEALTHLINE25" for 25% off
MNT's review
LetsGetChecked also offers a less extensive test for vitamin deficiencies with its Essential Vitamin Test. The test checks the blood for deficiencies in three important vitamins, including:
vitamin D vitamin B12 vitamin E Deficiencies in vitamin D and B12 can cause fatigue, so they may be important vitamins to test if a person is experiencing fatigue.
For instance, a 2019 study found a link between low vitamin D and fatigue in older adults, and an older 2016 study concluded that supplementing vitamin D reduced fatigue in otherwise healthy people with a vitamin D deficiency.
Plus, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) states that a vitamin B12 deficiency can cause extreme fatigue.
Once a person receives the test, they must register it on the LetsGetChecked website and follow the instructions.
The home test involves a finger-prick blood sample collection that an individual will send to a lab the same day.
Once received, the company’s team of doctors will review the test, and the lab will send the results to the person within 2 to 5 days.
According to the company, it tests samples in a CLIA certified lab. Its clinical team can also offer follow-up support if needed.
Use code “MEDICALNEWS30” for 30% off .
What our tester says “I would recommend this vitamin test to MNT readers. It’s an easily accessible way to access tests that allow you to gain insight into your health. The ordering and testing process is very easy and relatively pain-free, and results come quickly.
“The results were easy to understand and showed my vitamin levels in a visual way, which is helpful for people who may not have read blood test results before.”
— Lois Zoppi, MNT editor
“I would recommend this vitamin test to MNT readers. It’s an easily accessible way to access tests that allow you to gain insight into your health. The ordering and testing process is very easy and relatively pain-free, and results come quickly.
“The results were easy to understand and showed my vitamin levels in a visual way, which is helpful for people who may not have read blood test results before.”
— Lois Zoppi, MNT editor
Pros & cons our tester found the test easy to use the labs can return results very fast it tests for deficiencies in some vitamins that may be linked to fatigue there is follow-up support available the finger-prick test will not suit everyone the test is expensive some customers found it difficult to get their results the testing range is smaller than other brands our tester found the test easy to use the labs can return results very fast it tests for deficiencies in some vitamins that may be linked to fatigue there is follow-up support available the finger-prick test will not suit everyone the test is expensive some customers found it difficult to get their results the testing range is smaller than other brands Product details Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: free shipping Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: free shipping Collection method: venous blood draw Results in: 1–2 days Tests for: vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D Accepts insurance: HSA/FSA Follow-up guidance: free access to physician services from PWNHealth MNT's review
If a person would prefer to have their test in person, they can visit a Labcorp testing center. There, a healthcare professional will collect the required blood sample.
This may suit people who want to avoid taking a blood sample themselves.
This test checks for three vitamins, including:
A person can access their results via an online portal, and the company says a person’s results can be ready one day after the lab receives their sample. Labcorp will phone or email if results require immediate attention to discuss this with the customer. People must follow up with their own preferred healthcare professional for guidance.
Labcorp states that every one of its laboratories has a CLIA certificate.
What our tester says “I tried this test to learn some of the key vitamins I might be deficient in.
“You had to register for an account before you could make any purchase, but the actual sign up was fairly easy. Once you registered, you could make a purchase and then it would send you an automatic email to make an appointment. All emails were really helpful in getting started and making next steps.
“You don’t receive an at-home kit for the vitamin deficiency kit. Instead, you make an appointment with a Labcorp lab and do everything there. This was super straightforward and didn’t take long at all. The whole purchase was simple and right after purchasing it takes you to the link where you can make an appointment.
“I had several labs within a 15 mile radius and there were a ton of time slots available. Once I was there, I don’t think I spent more than 10 minutes at the lab in total, from sign in to blood draw. Plus, my results came the next day! The only downside I think is that it only tests for 3 vitamin deficiencies, and I could see some people needing a test that also checks your iron levels, for instance.
“If you don’t have insurance or are looking for really quick results, I think the vitamin deficiency test could be worth it, especially if you believe you might be low in vitamin D, as many people are. Supplementing with the vitamins this tests for can often be easy, but for any severe deficiencies, I would still reach out to a doctor.
“I think as a whole it felt like a pretty reputable and trustworthy company. I don’t have a lot of familiarity with other similar brands, so I can’t compare there. The whole process was very simple, easy, and I felt safe sharing my information.”
— Jamie Elmer, Healthline Copy Editor and Copy Edit Project Manager
“I tried this test to learn some of the key vitamins I might be deficient in.
“You had to register for an account before you could make any purchase, but the actual sign up was fairly easy. Once you registered, you could make a purchase and then it would send you an automatic email to make an appointment. All emails were really helpful in getting started and making next steps.
“You don’t receive an at-home kit for the vitamin deficiency kit. Instead, you make an appointment with a Labcorp lab and do everything there. This was super straightforward and didn’t take long at all. The whole purchase was simple and right after purchasing it takes you to the link where you can make an appointment.
“I had several labs within a 15 mile radius and there were a ton of time slots available. Once I was there, I don’t think I spent more than 10 minutes at the lab in total, from sign in to blood draw. Plus, my results came the next day! The only downside I think is that it only tests for 3 vitamin deficiencies, and I could see some people needing a test that also checks your iron levels, for instance.
“If you don’t have insurance or are looking for really quick results, I think the vitamin deficiency test could be worth it, especially if you believe you might be low in vitamin D, as many people are. Supplementing with the vitamins this tests for can often be easy, but for any severe deficiencies, I would still reach out to a doctor.
“I think as a whole it felt like a pretty reputable and trustworthy company. I don’t have a lot of familiarity with other similar brands, so I can’t compare there. The whole process was very simple, easy, and I felt safe sharing my information.”
— Jamie Elmer, Healthline Copy Editor and Copy Edit Project Manager
Pros & cons suitable for people who do not want to take a sample themselves positive reviews state service is efficient at testing sites it checks for three vitamins customers report good customer care at testing sites visiting a lab may not be convenient for everyone the test is expensive the testing range is smaller than other company's tests suitable for people who do not want to take a sample themselves positive reviews state service is efficient at testing sites it checks for three vitamins customers report good customer care at testing sites visiting a lab may not be convenient for everyone the test is expensive the testing range is smaller than other company's tests Product details Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout Best for vitamin D 4.9 (223+) from Everlywell Collection method: finger prick Results in: 5–7 days Tests for: vitamin D deficiency Accepts insurance: HSA/FSA only Follow-up guidance: a recorded educational session Use code “HEALTHLINE25” for 25% off .
MNT's review
Everlywell offers a test that looks at a person’s vitamin D levels and measures c-reactive protein (CRP), called hs-CRP. The liver makes CRP when there is inflammation in the body.
This finger-prick test allows a person to easily collect their sample and send it to a CLIA certified lab for testing. Independent, board certified doctors will review the results and explain them in easy-to-understand terms. The company then sends the results to a person’s online account, which they access via a secure login.
It offers follow-up advice for some of its tests but not all. Everlywell encourages individuals to discuss their results with a healthcare professional.
The test costs around $49 , but if a person becomes an Everlywell member, the price lowers. The company accepts flexible spending account (FSA) and health savings account (HSA) payments.
Learn more about Everlywell .
What our tester says “I found out a few months ago that I had a severe vitamin D deficiency, so I started taking daily Vitamin D supplements. I was curious if these were working and if I was taking a high enough dose, but I didn’t want to go through a whole doctors appointment and bloodwork test.
“It was super easy to create an account and register my kit [with Everlywell]. Everlywell’s app is extremely user-friendly, and they provide QR codes and step-by-step instructions for how to register your kit. It took me less than a minute to register the kit.
“For this test, I did have to prick my finger. The process went a lot smoother than I had expected. The kit came with several tips on how to make it easier, like putting your finger against a hard surface so that you don’t have to push as hard, as well as running your hands under warm water and moving them around to get the blood to flow faster. It was a very quick process and took me longer to prep my finger than it did to collect the sample. The lancet tool they provide was very easy to use and not scary, as it was easy to hold and didn’t show the needle at any point in the process.
“I would definitely recommend this product to our readers. Although I hate getting my finger pricked at the doctor, the Everlywell test kit made it really easy and quick to do at home by myself. I loved using the app and found the entire process of at-home testing to be very clear and quick. It was nice that I got to do the test in the comfort of my own home, on my own time.
“I had a really positive experience with Everlywell. I have used several of their at home tests and have never had any issues. I really like how easy it is to use their app, both to learn how to collect the sample and to use it for receiving results. I never like having to log into a bunch of portals to get my lab results from the doctor, which are then sometimes confusing to interpret. With Everlywell, I got a notification when my results were ready, and simply clicked it and immediately had an understandable read on my vitamin D levels.
“This at-home test is a good fit for anyone who wants to skip a doctors visit or long lab-work collections.”
— Heather Riesebeck, Healthline Associate
“I found out a few months ago that I had a severe vitamin D deficiency, so I started taking daily Vitamin D supplements. I was curious if these were working and if I was taking a high enough dose, but I didn’t want to go through a whole doctors appointment and bloodwork test.
“It was super easy to create an account and register my kit [with Everlywell]. Everlywell’s app is extremely user-friendly, and they provide QR codes and step-by-step instructions for how to register your kit. It took me less than a minute to register the kit.
“For this test, I did have to prick my finger. The process went a lot smoother than I had expected. The kit came with several tips on how to make it easier, like putting your finger against a hard surface so that you don’t have to push as hard, as well as running your hands under warm water and moving them around to get the blood to flow faster. It was a very quick process and took me longer to prep my finger than it did to collect the sample. The lancet tool they provide was very easy to use and not scary, as it was easy to hold and didn’t show the needle at any point in the process.
“I would definitely recommend this product to our readers. Although I hate getting my finger pricked at the doctor, the Everlywell test kit made it really easy and quick to do at home by myself. I loved using the app and found the entire process of at-home testing to be very clear and quick. It was nice that I got to do the test in the comfort of my own home, on my own time.
“I had a really positive experience with Everlywell. I have used several of their at home tests and have never had any issues. I really like how easy it is to use their app, both to learn how to collect the sample and to use it for receiving results. I never like having to log into a bunch of portals to get my lab results from the doctor, which are then sometimes confusing to interpret. With Everlywell, I got a notification when my results were ready, and simply clicked it and immediately had an understandable read on my vitamin D levels.
“This at-home test is a good fit for anyone who wants to skip a doctors visit or long lab-work collections.”
— Heather Riesebeck, Healthline Associate
Pros & cons more affordable than other brands the company accepts FSA and HSA payments there is a significant discount for Everlywell members doctors explain a person's results the test can signal inflammation in the body a longer wait for results than with other companies mixed online reviews on Trustpilot some customers found the kit difficult to use unsuitable for people testing for multiple deficiencies more affordable than other brands the company accepts FSA and HSA payments there is a significant discount for Everlywell members doctors explain a person's results the test can signal inflammation in the body a longer wait for results than with other companies mixed online reviews on Trustpilot some customers found the kit difficult to use unsuitable for people testing for multiple deficiencies Product details Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: free shipping Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: free shipping Best for checking iron levels Collection method: venous blood draw Results in: 1–2 days Tests for: ferritin levels Accepts insurance: HSA/FSA Follow-up guidance: free access to physician services from PWNHealth MNT's review
This is an in-person test from Labcorp, meaning people must visit a testing center in person. A healthcare professional collects the blood sample necessary for the test.
The test checks a person’s overall iron levels. Labcorp does not state whether someone needs to fast before this test. However, it advises those taking supplements containing biotin to wait 72 hours after their last dose to take the test.
Labcorp states that results can come back within 1 day of the lab receiving a person’s sample. If people want guidance, they must contact their own healthcare professional, as the company does not provide this service.
Every Labcorp laboratory has a CLIA certificate.
Pros & cons every Labcorp laboratory has CLIA certification it is an affordable test it is specifically for people who want to check iron levels getting a test in person is less convenient than at-home tests every Labcorp laboratory has CLIA certification it is an affordable test it is specifically for people who want to check iron levels getting a test in person is less convenient than at-home tests Product details Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout Returns: no returns or refunds Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout Collection method: in-person blood sample Results in: up to 8 business days Tests for: vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B12 (cobalamin), vitamin D, vitamin E, calcium, folate, iodine, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc Insurance coverage: accepts FSA/HSA debit/credit cards Follow up guidance: free access to physician services from PWNHealth Price: $282.00 MNT's review
This is an in-person blood test that a healthcare professional will carry out. A person must not eat or drink anything except water for 10 to 12 hours before the test and avoid taking any vitamin supplements for 24 hours beforehand, too.
Quest advises that this test checks for:
vitamins B1, B6, B12, D, and E calcium folate iodine iron magnesium potassium zinc
The company advises that results should be available within 8 business days once the test is complete, and it has healthcare professionals on hand to answer any questions you may have.
Quest cannot currently offer this test to those living in Arkansas, Arizona, or Hawaii.
In addition to the $282 , a $6 physician service fee al applies.
Pros & cons broad testing range accepts FSA/HSA can help doctors decide if a person needs supplements does not ship to Arizona, Arkansas, or Hawaii less affordable than other options visiting a lab in person may not suit everyone broad testing range accepts FSA/HSA can help doctors decide if a person needs supplements does not ship to Arizona, Arkansas, or Hawaii less affordable than other options visiting a lab in person may not suit everyone Product details Returns: partial refunds may be available Shipping: free Returns: partial refunds may be available Shipping: free The table below compares each vitamin deficiency test in this article for collection method, price, result turnaround time, and more.
People may wish to consider these factors before buying a test online:
The tested nutrients: Many companies offer comprehensive panels testing several vitamins and minerals. However, some tests only check the levels of certain vitamins. A person should pick the test that best suits 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 tests require a blood test.Fasting: Some tests require a person to fast before taking a sample. A person should check the fasting period before taking the test. They may also require people to stop taking certain supplements for a few days before collecting a sample.The timing of results: Some tests have shorter turnaround times, but these may be more expensive.Price: Different at-home vitamin deficiency tests fit different budgets. Those that test for a wider range of vitamins may cost more.The specific vitamin deficiency symptoms a person experiences will depend on which vitamin deficiency a person has.
For example, a vitamin C deficiency may cause :
An iron deficiency can cause fatigue, while a lack of vitamin D can be responsible for:
Vitamin tests screen the levels of vitamins and nutrients in the blood. In-person tests will likely require a healthcare professional to draw the blood using a needle. At-home tests will provide a lancet for people to collect their own samples.
A person should speak with a doctor about their symptoms before getting a vitamin deficiency test.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that at-home tests can effectively detect health conditions and monitor existing ones. However, it warns people that they should not replace doctor’s appointments with at-home tests.
The most reputable companies selling at-home tests send customers’ samples to CLIA-certified labs. These are the labs that hospitals and doctor’s offices use, which may suggest the sample analysis will be as accurate as it is for tests people will get from a doctor.
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.
A 2019 research review 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 write that addressing these deficiencies should include improved, more diverse diets and supplementation.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of a vitamin deficiency should speak with a doctor about getting tested and discuss their results with them if they go ahead with a test.
For any further questions, all reputable at-home tests will have instructions and a customer care line.
Most vitamin deficiency tests require a blood sample. The company should send all necessary equipment, including a lancet, in the original package.
People will likely need to fill in a form detailing personal information. Then, they should use the lancet to collect a sample of blood.
The company should provide a return envelope with pre-paid shipping. After a person takes their sample, they should send the envelope off.
People will receive their results soon after, typically within one week of the lab receiving the samples. Depending on the company a person uses, they may need to log in or use an app to view their results.
Some companies may offer follow-up advice. Others may suggest contacting a healthcare professional for help interpreting the results.
If a test shows that a person has a vitamin deficiency, they must contact a doctor. A person may also wish to inform a doctor if their test does not show a particular deficiency.
If a person receives treatment from a doctor, they may wish to conduct the test again after their treatment ends to see how their vitamin levels change.
A person should consult a doctor before making health decisions based on the results of an at-home test.
How do you test for vitamin deficiencies? People can test for vitamin deficiencies with blood tests. These tests may involve a lab technician taking blood from a vein in the arm or people taking finger-prick tests at home. Medical laboratory scientists will analyze a person’s blood sample and measure the levels of vitamins and minerals in the sample.
People can test for vitamin deficiencies with blood tests. These tests may involve a lab technician taking blood from a vein in the arm or people taking finger-prick tests at home. Medical laboratory scientists will analyze a person’s blood sample and measure the levels of vitamins and minerals in the sample.
How do I get my doctor to check my vitamin levels? If a person shows any signs of a vitamin deficiency, such as fatigue, depression, or dry, brittle hair, they need to contact a doctor.
A doctor may order a test to check vitamin levels.
If a person shows any signs of a vitamin deficiency, such as fatigue, depression, or dry, brittle hair, they need to contact a doctor.
A doctor may order a test to check vitamin levels.
Does a CBC show vitamin deficiency? A complete blood count (CBC) can detect certain deficiencies, such as those in iron or vitamin B12.
A complete blood count (CBC) can detect certain deficiencies, such as those in iron or vitamin B12.
Will a blood test show a vitamin B12 deficiency? Yes. Tests such as those from Labcorp and LetsGetChecked will show if a person has a vitamin B12 deficiency by testing the levels in their blood. Healthcare professionals carry out this test with a finger prick or a blood sample.
Yes. Tests such as those from Labcorp and LetsGetChecked will show if a person has a vitamin B12 deficiency by testing the levels in their blood. Healthcare professionals carry out this test with a finger prick or a blood sample.
What is a full vitamin panel called? A full vitamin panel is also called a comprehensive vitamin deficiency blood panel. This is a test that measures multiple vitamin and mineral levels in the blood.
A full vitamin panel is also called a comprehensive vitamin deficiency blood panel. This is a test that measures multiple vitamin and mineral levels in the blood.
How do I know what vitamins my body needs? Vitamins and minerals are essential for health, and people typically get the vitamins they need through their diet. The 13 essential vitamins are vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, plus thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, B6, B12, and folate.
Vitamin deficiencies can cause a range of different symptoms, and the symptoms will depend on the vitamin a person is deficient in.
Vitamins and minerals are essential for health, and people typically get the vitamins they need through their diet. The 13 essential vitamins are vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, plus thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, B6, B12, and folate.
Vitamin deficiencies can cause a range of different symptoms, and the symptoms will depend on the vitamin a person is deficient in.
How much does a vitamin deficiency test cost? The cost of a vitamin deficiency test will vary depending on whether a person gets it through a doctor’s office or a telehealth company. Their insurance coverage may also affect the price of their test. Telehealth companies typically charge around $50 to $200 for vitamin tests.
The cost of a vitamin deficiency test will vary depending on whether a person gets it through a doctor’s office or a telehealth company. Their insurance coverage may also affect the price of their test. Telehealth companies typically charge around $50 to $200 for vitamin tests.
At-home vitamin deficiency tests check levels of vitamins and minerals in a blood sample. They are generally convenient, but they can be expensive.
Anyone concerned about a deficiency should consider consulting a doctor, especially if a test returns a positive result. The doctor can check for underlying health conditions, perform further tests, and offer treatment if necessary.