Homocysteine (pronounced homo-sis-teen) is a breakdown product of a substance called methionine, itself derived from protein in the diet. Homocysteine helps to build and maintain tissues in the body, but in excess, has the capacity to injure the lining of the arteries in the body. Many scientists believe that such damage in the vessel wall is the first step in the process in which cholesterol causes artery narrowing that is a common underlying factor in heart disease and stroke. In addition, homocysteine can thicken the blood too, an effect which is likely to increase the risk of these conditions as well as blood clots in the leg known as deep vein thromboses (DVTs). Recently, UK researchers published a study in the British Medical Journal that reviewed data from a total of 92 studies assessing the relationship between homocysteine levels and disease. The authors of this study concluded that there is indeed strong evidence to suggest that homocysteine is a causative factor in heart disease, stroke and DVT.
LOWERING HOMOCYSTEINE LEVELS
To lower levels of homocysteine naturally, eat foods that are high in folic acid, such as fruits and vegetables. Spinach, asparagus and collard greens are some of the best sources of folic acid.
VITAMIN B12
Increase your intake of vitamins B12 and B6. Vitamins B12 and B6 work in conjunction with folic acid to regulate your homocysteine levels. Vitamins B12 and B6 can be found in meats and dairy products, sucha as eggs, fish, chicken, beef and pork. You may need to take a supplement if you have a sever deficiency of these vitamins. If you have a condition such as Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome or pernicious anemia that cause a deficiency of these vitamins, you should get Vitamin B12 injections.
Correcting harmful habits can also lower homocysteine levels. Smoking raises the homocysteine levels in your body by contributing to B12 deficiency, while alcohol raises homocysteine levels by causing a deficiency of folic acid. Avoiding coffee can also help lower homocysteine levels.
Dr. Olaf, ND
Kingston Wellness Clinic
LOWERING HOMOCYSTEINE LEVELS
To lower levels of homocysteine naturally, eat foods that are high in folic acid, such as fruits and vegetables. Spinach, asparagus and collard greens are some of the best sources of folic acid.
VITAMIN B12
Increase your intake of vitamins B12 and B6. Vitamins B12 and B6 work in conjunction with folic acid to regulate your homocysteine levels. Vitamins B12 and B6 can be found in meats and dairy products, sucha as eggs, fish, chicken, beef and pork. You may need to take a supplement if you have a sever deficiency of these vitamins. If you have a condition such as Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome or pernicious anemia that cause a deficiency of these vitamins, you should get Vitamin B12 injections.
Correcting harmful habits can also lower homocysteine levels. Smoking raises the homocysteine levels in your body by contributing to B12 deficiency, while alcohol raises homocysteine levels by causing a deficiency of folic acid. Avoiding coffee can also help lower homocysteine levels.
Dr. Olaf, ND
Kingston Wellness Clinic