Ulta Lab Tests

All Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency Tests

All Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency Tests bring together the key blood (and select urine) markers that show whether your body has the nutrients it needs to support energy, immunity, brain function, bones, and heart health. Nutrient gaps can be silent at first, then appear as fatigue, hair/skin changes, anemia, or nerve symptoms. A proactive testing plan can spot problems early, especially after major diet changes, bariatric surgery, restrictive eating, pregnancy planning, or long-term medication use that affects absorption (for example, metformin or acid-reducing medicines).

Start with a baseline—CBC/CMP, vitamin B12 with methylmalonic acid (MMA), folate, 25-OH vitamin D, and an iron panel with ferritin—then add zinc, magnesium, copper/ceruloplasmin, selenium, and iodine when history or symptoms suggest. These tests support screening, diagnosis, and monitoring, but they do not replace a clinician’s evaluation or nutrition counseling.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Energy & brain: fatigue, brain fog, low mood, headaches, restless legs, tingling or numbness (B12, iron, B1, B6)

  • Hair/skin/nails: hair thinning, brittle nails, dry skin, mouth sores (iron, zinc, biotin, B-vitamins)

  • Muscle & bone: bone pain, muscle cramps, weakness (vitamin D, calcium, magnesium)

  • Blood/oxygen: pallor, shortness of breath with exertion, fast heartbeat (iron deficiency anemia, B12/folate anemia)

  • Immune & thyroid: frequent infections (zinc), thyroid symptoms or goiter (iodine, selenium)

  • Risk contexts: vegan/vegetarian diets, bariatric or GI surgery, celiac or IBD, heavy menstrual loss, pregnancy planning, aging, alcohol use disorder, long-term metformin or acid-suppression therapy

  • Urgent care now: severe weakness, chest pain, black or bloody stools, high fever, confusion, or rapidly worsening neurologic symptoms

Symptoms require evaluation by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Detect deficiencies early to prevent complications (anemia, neuropathy, bone loss)

  • Differentiate causes of similar symptoms (iron vs. B12/folate anemia; magnesium vs. calcium issues)

  • Monitor trends during diet changes, pregnancy planning, recovery after surgery, or clinician-directed therapy

What testing cannot do

  • Replace a full medical/nutrition assessment or provide dosing advice

  • Diagnose every cause of symptoms—some cases need imaging, stool testing, or specialty evaluation

  • Guarantee performance or energy improvements without lifestyle and clinical follow-up

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • Vitamin B12 with MMA ± Homocysteine: confirms functional B12 status even when serum B12 looks “normal”; useful for neuropathy, fatigue. Caveat: MMA can rise in kidney disease.

  • Folate (serum or RBC): DNA synthesis and red-cell production. Caveat: alcohol use and some meds affect levels.

  • Iron Panel with Ferritin (Iron, TIBC, Transferrin Saturation): screens iron deficiency; ferritin is a storagemarker. Caveat: ferritin rises with inflammation—pair with history/CRP.

  • 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D: best test for vitamin D status; bone/muscle health. Caveat: 1,25-OH2 D is not a deficiency screen.

  • Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium (± RBC Magnesium): mineral balance and muscle/nerve function. Caveat:serum magnesium may not reflect tissue stores; some use RBC Mg.

  • Parathyroid Hormone (PTH): integrates calcium–vitamin D–bone axis; elevated in vitamin D deficiency or low calcium intake.

  • Zinc (plasma/serum): immune, skin, and wound repair; taste/smell. Caveat: low albumin/inflammation can lower measured zinc.

  • Copper & Ceruloplasmin: neurologic and hematologic health; balances with zinc. Caveat: excess zinc can lower copper.

  • Selenium: thyroid enzyme function and antioxidant defense.

  • Iodine (usually urine): reflects recent iodine intake; consider when thyroid symptoms and low intake coexist.

  • B1 (Thiamine), B6 (Pyridoxine), B2 (Riboflavin): nerve and energy metabolism; both low and high B6 can cause neuropathy.

  • Vitamin A (Retinol) & Vitamin E (α-Tocopherol): vision, immunity, and antioxidant status—ordered in select cases.

  • General health context: CBC/CMP, lipids, A1c to rule in/out broader contributors.

Quick Build Guide

Goal / Scenario Start with Add if needed
Wellness baseline CBC • CMP • 25-OH Vitamin D • B12 + MMA • Iron panel + Ferritin Zinc • Magnesium • Folate
Fatigue/brain fog CBC • B12 + MMA • Ferritin/Iron • TSH Vitamin D • Folate • B1 • B6
Hair loss/brittle nails/skin changes Ferritin/Iron • Zinc Vitamin D • B12 • Copper
Bone or muscle pain/cramps 25-OH Vitamin D • Calcium • Magnesium • Phosphorus PTH • CK
Neuropathy/tingling B12 + MMA • B1 • B6 • A1c Copper • Vitamin D • Folate
Vegetarian/vegan B12 + MMA • Ferritin/Iron • Vitamin D Zinc • Iodine (urine) • Omega-3 index (if available)
Bariatric/GI surgery B12 + MMA • Ferritin/Iron • Folate • Vitamin D • Calcium • PTH Zinc • Copper • Thiamine • Selenium
Thyroid/goiter context TSH • 25-OH Vitamin D • Selenium Iodine (urine) • Zinc
Heavy menstrual loss CBC • Ferritin/Iron Folate • B12

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Select your starting set: use the Quick Build Guide to match tests to your goals.

  2. Prepare for accuracy: some labs suggest a morning, non-fasting draw; fast only if your order includes fasting lipids/glucose. Avoid high-dose biotin 24–48 hours before testing if your instructions advise.

  3. Provide samples: standard blood draw; iodine testing may use a spot urine sample.

  4. View results securely: most post in a few days to your account.

  5. Plan next steps: review with your clinician or dietitian; repeat to monitor trends and confirm corrections.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • Low ferritin with low transferrin saturation: typical of iron deficiency; confirm the cause (intake vs. blood loss) with your clinician.

  • Normal B12 but high MMA: suggests functional B12 deficiency; correlate with symptoms.

  • Low vitamin D with high PTH: supports vitamin D insufficiency affecting calcium–bone balance.

  • Low zinc with low albumin: may reflect poor intake/absorption or inflammation; context matters.

  • High B6 level: can contribute to sensory neuropathy—review supplements.

  • Copper–zinc imbalance: excess of one can depress the other; interpret together.
    Ranges vary by lab; patterns over time and clinical context are key. Always review results with a qualified healthcare professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Foundational nutrient panel: CBC • CMP • B12 + MMA • Folate • 25-OH Vitamin D • Iron panel + Ferritin

  • Mineral focus: Zinc • Magnesium (± RBC) • Copper + Ceruloplasmin • Selenium • Iodine (urine)

  • Bone/thyroid axis: Calcium • Phosphorus • PTH • 25-OH Vitamin D • TSH

  • Neuropathy set: B12 + MMA • B1 • B6 • Copper • A1c
    Choose bundled panels for efficient screening and add individual markers to answer specific questions.

FAQs

Do I need to fast for vitamin and mineral tests?
Usually no. Fast only if your order includes fasting lipids or glucose.

Why test B12 and MMA together?
MMA rises when tissues lack B12, even if serum B12 looks normal—helpful for early deficiency.

Is ferritin enough to check iron?
Ferritin is key, but pairing it with iron, TIBC, and transferrin saturation improves accuracy—especially if inflammation is present.

Which vitamin D test should I order?
25-hydroxy vitamin D is the standard for deficiency screening.

Can too much B6 cause symptoms?
Yes—high B6 can cause numbness/tingling. Tell your clinician about all supplements.

How often should I re-test?
Many people recheck every 3–6 months after changes or if results were abnormal. Follow your clinician’s plan.

Are urine iodine tests useful?
They reflect recent intake and are sometimes used when thyroid symptoms and low iodine intake are suspected.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Nutrition & Wellness Tests Hub

  • General Health Tests • Anemia & Blood Count • Bone & Joint (Osteoporosis) • Thyroid Tests • Neuropathy Tests • Digestive Health (Malabsorption)

  • Key Tests: Vitamin B12 • MMA • Homocysteine • Folate • 25-OH Vitamin D • Iron • TIBC • Transferrin Saturation • Ferritin • Calcium • Phosphorus • Magnesium (± RBC) • PTH • Zinc • Copper • Ceruloplasmin • Selenium • Iodine (urine) • Vitamin A • Vitamin E • B1 (Thiamine) • B6 (Pyridoxine) • B2 (Riboflavin) • CBC • CMP • A1c • Lipid Panel

References

  • NIH Office of Dietary Supplements — Vitamin and mineral fact sheets.
  • Endocrine Society — Clinical practice guideline on vitamin D evaluation.
  • American Society of Hematology — Iron deficiency evaluation.
  • American Thyroid Association — Iodine and thyroid health resources.
  • Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics — Micronutrient assessment in adults.
  • American Gastroenterological Association — Post-bariatric and malabsorption nutrition guidance.
  • Clinical reviews on zinc/copper balance, B12 deficiency (MMA/homocysteine), and magnesium assessment.

Available Tests & Panels

Your All Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency Tests menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with a foundational nutrient panel, then use filters to add bone/thyroid axis, mineral-specific, or neuropathy-focusedmarkers. Follow any collection instructions and review results with your clinician or dietitian to confirm findings and set a monitoring plan.

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The Vitamin D 1,25-Dihydroxy Test measures the active form of vitamin D in blood to evaluate calcium and phosphorus balance, bone health, and kidney function. Abnormal levels may indicate kidney disease, parathyroid disorders, or problems with calcium metabolism. Doctors order this test when deficiency symptoms don’t match 25-hydroxy vitamin D results or to monitor chronic illness. Results provide vital insight into vitamin D activity, mineral health, and metabolic function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Calcitriol Test
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The Vitamin D 25-Hydroxy Total Test measures levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in blood to evaluate vitamin D status, bone health, and calcium balance. It helps detect deficiency, insufficiency, or toxicity, which can affect immune function, muscle strength, and risk of osteoporosis. Doctors use this test to assess overall nutritional health, monitor supplementation, and support diagnosis of metabolic or endocrine disorders linked to vitamin D.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: 25-hydroxyvitamin D Test, Vitamin D 25-OH Test, Total 25-OH D Test
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Most Popular

The QuestAssureD™ Vitamin D 25-Hydroxy Total Test measures Vitamin D2, Vitamin D3, and total 25-hydroxy vitamin D to assess overall vitamin D status. Adequate vitamin D supports bone strength, calcium absorption, immune health, and muscle function. Low levels may cause osteoporosis, weakness, or increased disease risk, while high levels can indicate toxicity. Doctors use this test to diagnose deficiency, monitor supplementation, and evaluate metabolic and endocrine health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Vitamin D Test, Ergocalciferol Test, Vitamin D2 Test, Cholecalciferol Test, Vitamin D3 Test, Calcidiol Test, 25-hydroxyvitamin D Test, Calcifidiol Test, 25-hydroxy-vitamin D Test, Vitamin D Total Test
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The Vitamin E Micronutrient Test measures blood levels of vitamin E to assess antioxidant status and detect deficiencies or excess. Vitamin E protects cells from oxidative damage, supports immune function, and promotes cardiovascular and neurological health. This test helps identify poor dietary intake, absorption issues, or toxicity from supplements, aiding in diagnosis and management of overall wellness.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Tocopherol Test
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The Vitamin E Test measures blood levels of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant essential for protecting cells, supporting immunity, and maintaining nerve and muscle health. Low levels may result from poor diet, malabsorption, or liver disease, leading to weakness or vision problems. High levels can occur with excessive supplementation. Doctors order this test to assess nutritional status, monitor chronic illness, or guide therapy for deficiency or toxicity.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Tocopherol Test
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The Vitamin K Test measures blood levels of vitamin K, a nutrient essential for blood clotting, bone strength, and heart health. Deficiency may cause easy bruising, excessive bleeding, or weakened bones, and can result from poor diet, liver disease, or malabsorption. Doctors order this test to investigate clotting problems, monitor anticoagulant therapy, or assess nutritional status. Results help guide treatment, supplementation, and long-term health management.

Blood
Blood Draw
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The Zinc Micronutrient Test measures blood zinc levels to evaluate nutritional status and detect deficiencies or excess. Zinc is vital for immune function, wound healing, growth, reproduction, and enzyme activity. This test helps identify poor intake, malabsorption, or excessive supplementation, supporting diagnosis and management of overall health, immune balance, and metabolic function.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Zinc Plasma Test
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The Zinc Test measures zinc levels in blood to evaluate nutritional status and overall health. Zinc is essential for immune function, wound healing, growth, taste, and reproductive health. Abnormal levels may cause fatigue, hair loss, delayed healing, or increased infection risk. Doctors use this test to detect zinc deficiency or excess, monitor supplementation, and guide treatment for conditions linked to immune, metabolic, or endocrine imbalance.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As:  Zinc Plasma Test, Zn Test
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The Manganese Micronutrient Blood Test measures manganese levels in the blood to evaluate nutritional status and detect deficiencies or excess. Manganese is essential for bone formation, metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins, and antioxidant defense. This test helps identify imbalances from poor diet, malabsorption, or overexposure, supporting diagnosis and management of metabolic and overall health.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
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Blood Draw
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The B Vitamins Micronutrients Test Panel measures levels of Folate, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12 to evaluate nutritional status and detect deficiencies. B vitamins are essential for energy production, metabolism, red blood cell formation, nervous system health, and DNA synthesis. This panel helps identify imbalances from poor diet, malabsorption, or increased nutrient needs, supporting overall health management.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
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Blood Draw, Phlebotomist
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Vitamins and Mineral Deficiency Lab Tests

Did you know nearly 70% of people in the US are deficient in calcium, followed by omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, iron, and vitamin B12?

When you don't get the essential vitamins and nutrients from your regular diet, you're more likely to develop chronic health problems such as fatigue, high blood pressure, and osteoporosis.

Due to this, lab tests for vitamins and mineral deficiencies are essential for your body to maintain its health and wellness.

If you're concerned you might have vitamin deficiencies, then keep reading to learn everything you need to know about vitamin and mineral deficiency lab tests. 

What Are Vitamin and Mineral Tests?

Vitamins and minerals play a huge role in practically every process in your body, from immunity, metabolism, digestion, to hormone regulation. If you have ongoing nutritional imbalances, it can lead to:

  • Weight loss
  • Loss of muscle mass
  • Loss of bone density
  • Joint pain
  • Fatigue and insomnia
  • Poor memory
  • Chronic disease

When you want to understand the state of your health truly, a vitamin or a mineral deficiency test can provide valuable insights into how what you eat affects your body.

How to Test for Vitamin Deficiency

If you're wondering how to test for a vitamin deficiency, it's important to understand what types of nutrients there are. Nutrients can be put into two different categories. First, there are macronutrients which include:

  • Proteins
  • Fats 
  • Carbohydrates (fiber, starch, sugar)
  • Water

The next category is macronutrients that include:

  • Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron
  • Vitamins like Vitamin, B, C, and D
  • Antioxidants

Vitamin deficiency tests evaluate the micronutrients in your blood. They help your doctors diagnose nutritional deficiencies and get an overall picture of your nutritional health.

Benefits of Vitamin and Mineral Lab Tests

A blood test is a simple and powerful tool that identifies nutritional problems early on and prevents disease development. 

Many people don't suffer symptoms but can still be deficient in essential nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium. You can also easily fix many of these imbalances by modifying your diet and adding supplements.

Other benefits of vitamin and mineral lab tests include:

  • Improve your organ function with the right nutrients
  • Eliminate symptoms
  • Prevent illness
  • Boost your immune system
  • A diet plan can be formed based on your lab results
  • You can save money by only taking the supplements that you need

Vitamin and Mineral Lab Tests

Depending on your symptoms and what nutrients you want to check, you can find different vitamin and mineral panels from basic to comprehensive.

The Vitamins & Minerals + ( Omegas, CMP & CBC) - Basic panel includes:

A complete blood count (CBC) checks the overall health of your blood. The CBC measures things like red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) measures electrolytes, proteins, blood sugar and gives an overall indication of your kidney and liver function.

Next, a ferritin level measures how much iron is stored in your body. Ferritin is a protein found in your cells directly related to the amount of iron stored in your body. Folate is necessary for normal red blood cell formation and the repair of cells and tissues.

Iron is a mineral your body needs for most of its functions. Your body needs enough iron to carry oxygen to the cells and tissues. Low levels of iron can cause iron deficiency anemia. And omega-3 and omega-6 are fatty acids necessary for your body to function properly, and magnesium is essential for your bones, organs, and tissues.

The Vitamins & Minerals + ( Omegas, CMP & CBC) - Basic Plus panel includes the same tests as the basic panel but includes a prealbumin level, a protein produced by the liver and carries thyroid hormone and vitamin A throughout the body.

Next is a vitamin D and vitamin B12 deficiency test. And a transferrin level more closely assesses iron deficiency and the total iron balance in your body.

The Vitamins & Minerals + ( Omegas, CMP & CBC) - Advanced panel includes additional tests such as homocysteine level, which checks for vitamin B6, B12 deficiencies as well as identify if you're at risk for heart disease or a stroke. Zinc helps your immune system and metabolism function normally.

Vitamins & Minerals + ( Omegas, CMP & CBC) - Comprehensive also includes additional tests such as a detailed panel for vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K, zinc, and copper levels. Copper and zinc are necessary for your immune and nervous system to function normally. They are also key for healthy digestion.

FAQS About Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency Tests

What exact role do minerals play in the body? Minerals are crucial to the health of your and support many functions like:

  • Thyroid gland function
  • Immune system function
  • Muscle function 
  • Normal red blood cell production
  • Bone health

 What illnesses can cause vitamin and mineral deficiencies? Digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel, celiac disease, or any disorder that causes malabsorption of food. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies also cause disorders like scurvy, rickets, and protein-energy malnutrition.

Vitamins and Mineral Deficiency at Ulta Lab Tests

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate so that you can make the best decisions about your health. Here are a few great things to love about Ulta Lab Tests:

  • Results are always secure and confidential
  • No need for health insurance
  • No need for a physician's referral
  • You always receive affordable pricing
  • A 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Order your vitamins and mineral deficiency test from Ulta Lab Tests today, and your results will be provided to you securely and confidentially online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests.

Take charge of your health with Ulta Lab Tests today!