Homocysteine

What is homocysteine?

Homocysteine is an amino acid that is made by the body. It is also in some foods. Amino acids are small molecules that are the building blocks for proteins.

High blood levels of homocysteine have been linked to an increased risk of coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.

A high level of homocysteine seems to cause problems in at least 3 ways. It may:

• damage the cells lining the inside of the arteries
• interfere with clotting factors in the blood
• affect the way the body processes low-density lipoproteins (LDL).

What causes high levels of homocysteine?

Things that may cause high levels of homocysteine are:

• aging
• homocystinuria (a condition that keeps the body from getting rid of excess homocysteine)
• kidney disease
• not enough folic acid, vitamin B6, or vitamin B12 in the diet
• smoking.

How can homocysteine levels be lowered?

A healthy diet is the first step to lowering homocysteine levels. Three nutrients can help keep homocysteine in check: folic acid, vitamin B6, or vitamin B12.

• Folic acid is found in green leafy vegetables, oranges, and fortified cereals.
• Vitamin B-6 is in many foods, including bananas, potatoes, and fortified cereals.
• Vitamin B-12 is found in animal products such as meats, poultry, fish, and eggs, and in fortified cereals.

Is my risk of heart attack reduced if I lower my homocysteine level?

Experts do not currently agree on whether or not lowering homocysteine levels can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. There is no direct proof that folic acid and B vitamins prevent heart attacks and strokes. If you are at high risk for heart disease, your healthcare provider can check your homocysteine level with a blood test. If your levels are high, your provider may advise you to be sure to get enough folic acid and vitamins B-6 and B-12 in your diet. However, other risk factors and your total diet must be considered also.

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