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Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) Unit Converter
Folate (Vitamin B9) is a vital water-soluble vitamin essential for numerous metabolic processes, especially DNA synthesis and repair. Folate acts as a cofactor in the transfer of single-carbon units, a role it shares closely with Vitamin B12. Deficiency in either vitamin leads to impaired DNA synthesis, resulting in Megaloblastic Anemia.[Image of iron metabolism cycle]
Folate is critical in pregnancy; adequate supplementation before and during the first trimester significantly prevents Neural Tube Defects (NTDs). In clinical diagnosis, **Red Blood Cell (RBC) Folate** is often considered a better measure of long-term stores than serum folate. This converter facilitates switching between the standard mass unit (ng/mL) and the International SI unit (nmol/L).
SI Units
RecommendedNanomoles per liter (Standard International).
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Reference Range (Serum): Typically 3.0 – 17.0 ng/mL (7 – 38 nmol/L). The threshold for deficiency is often considered < 3 ng/mL.
Because food fortification with folic acid is common, serum folate may be falsely normal even when tissue stores are depleted. RBC folate provides a more accurate measure of long-term status. High folate levels can mask the neurological symptoms of **Vitamin B12 deficiency**. The conversion factor relies on MW 441.4 g/mol: 1 ng/mL ≈ 2.265 nmol/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., ng/mL). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other units (like nmol/L) are instantly updated.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. nmol/L is the international standard for B vitamins.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Yes. 1 ng/mL is exactly equal to 1 µg/L.
Folate and Vitamin B12 are essential cofactors in the same metabolic pathway (methionine synthesis). Deficiency in one can mimic symptoms of the other.