Adequate choline in the diet is essential for homocysteine as well as for other nutrients to function normally. The body aims for balance and the effective regulation of nutrients. Imbalances, deficiencies and excesses of nutrients disrupt the desired balance, resulting in health conditions and disease. The relationship that exists between choline and homocysteine is an example of the delicate balance that exists between nutrients.
Role of Choline
Choline has several roles in the body. Choline is an essential nutrient that assists other critical metabolic reactions with happening appropriately. A study in the August 2006 "Annual Reviews of Nutrition" explains that choline is critical for fetal development because it contributes to brain and spinal formation as well as the function and communication of the brain and spine. Choline is needed for the formation of the amino acid methionine and for the structural integrity of cell membranes.
Significance of Homocysteine
Homocysteine is an amino acid that aids in the production of methionine, which is another amino acid and crucial to the process of fat metabolism. In this process, homocysteine is broken down and the remnants contribute to damaged arteries and plaque buildup and can restrict blood flow. This damage creates inflammation. Because of this, high levels of homocysteine in the blood are significant and are used to measure inflammation and predict cardiovascular disease.
Relationship Between Choline and Homocysteine
Choline is needed for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. Without choline, levels of homocysteine build up and increase inflammation in the body and raise the risk for heart disease. Adequate amounts of choline are also critical to the metabolism of other nutrients associated with homocysteine, such as folate and B-12, according to "Today's Dietitian."
Recommendations for Choline
In order to achieve adequate levels of choline and homocysteine, choline needs to be sufficient in your diet. The Institute of Medicine recommends that women consume 425 mg of choline and men consume 550 mg of choline daily. Dietary sources of choline include eggs, beef, chicken, liver, soy flour, salmon, quinoa and wheat germ. A dietary supplement of choline is another source when your dietary sources are inadequate. Consult your physician before you take a choline supplement in order to prevent harmful side effects or drug-nutrient interactions.
References
- "Annual Reviews of Nutrition"; Choline: Critical Role During Fetal Development and Dietary Requirements in Adults; Steven Ziesel; August 2006
- "Today's Dietitian"; Eating Heart Smart; Marie Spano, MS, RD; February 2007
- "International Journal of Cardiology"; Plasma Homocysteine and the Extent of Atherosclerosis in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease; G. Montalescot, et al.; August 1997
- "Today's Dietitian"; Choline --- Rethinking the Dietary Requirement; Denise Webb, PhD, RD; April 2011
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