Heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women in the United States, accounting for over 40 percent of deaths, according to the American Heart Association. It is often used interchangeably with cardiovascular disease and refers to a group of conditions such as coronary artery disease and arrhythmias or other heart defects. High levels of homocysteine in the blood may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.
Homocysteine
Homocysteine is an amino acid, or protein building block, produced by the body and found in the blood. It is created when another amino acid in the body is metabolized. Homocysteine generally causes no harm because it is quickly converted into other useful amino acids by the body. However, high levels of homocysteine increase the risk for coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease and stroke, according to the American Heart Association.
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease is the most common form of heart disease; it occurs when the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked over time. It is caused by a buildup of plaque or fatty deposits on the artery walls--a condition called atherosclerosis. Evidence suggests that high levels of homocysteine in the blood may promote atherosclerosis, according to the American Heart Association.
High Levels of Homocysteine
Both dietary and genetic factors play a role in the levels of homocysteine in the blood. High levels can damage the artery linings and increase the risk of blood clots. Damage to vessel walls can cause cholesterol to deposit more easily and result in the aggregation of platelets, leading to vessel narrowing and eventual blockage, according to the website HeartPoint. Dietary causes of high homocysteine include a diet low in folic acid and B vitamins as well as certain conditions such as low thyroid levels, psoriasis and kidney disease, according to familydoctor.org.
Folic Acid and B Vitamins
The primary reason individuals develop high levels of homocysteine in the blood is lack of folic acid, or folate, and vitamins B6 and B12 in the diet. These vitamins help break down homocysteine in the blood or convert it into other amino acids. Increasing the amount of these vitamins through food or supplementation can help lower high levels of homocysteine in the blood. Good sources of folate include green leafy vegetables, fruit, fortified grain products and some breakfast cereals, according to familydoctor.org. Vitamin B6 is found in potatoes, bananas, chicken and garbanzo beans, while good sources of vitamin B12 include dairy products, liver, beef and some types of fish.
Considerations
Although homocysteine is related to an increased risk of certain diseases of the heart, the American Heart Association has yet to consider high levels of homocysteine in the blood as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association does not recommend folic acid and B vitamin supplements as a plan to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. These vitamins should be a part of a well-balanced diet, and supplements should only be taken when sufficient amounts cannot be obtained through diet. It is important to consult with a physician before taking any supplements.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Heart Disease: Heart Disease
- American Heart Association: What Is Homocysteine?
- HeartPoint: Treatment of Coronary Artery Disease
- Healthy Heart Guide: Homocysteine and Heart Disease
- FamilyDoctor: Homocysteine
- American Heart Association: Homocysteine, Folic Acid and Cardiovascular Disease
