Homocysteine is an amino acid created in the body from the metabolism of methionine, an essential amino acid obtained from animal protein. Because high levels of homocysteine are toxic, it is normally broken down in the bloodstream and converted back into methionine with the help of betaine, vitamin B6, vitamin B9 and vitamin B12.
Homocysteine is converted back into methionine by a process called methylation. trimethylglycine, also known as betaine anhydrous. Without enough of the three B vitamins and betaine in the diet, the recycling process becomes faulty, causing homocysteine levels in the blood to rise.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is common amongst vegetarians who are therefore more at risk of developing high homocysteine levels. People that drink alcohol regularly are prone to being deficient in the B vitamins so could also be at risk.
Some people also have a genetic tendency to build up toxic levels of homocysteine that damages the walls of their blood vessels. Cholesterol then gets deposited in the arteries impaired by homocysteine, which can lead to blockage and stroke or cardiovascular disease. If the blood flow to the brain is interrupted, the individual can suffer a brain attack also known as a stroke. When blood fails to reach any area of the brain, brain cells die rapidly and set off a chain reaction that kills other brain cells.
WARNING: A stroke is an emergency medical situation and can permanently impair speech, movement and memory. Stroke prevention may be as simple making sure that adequate levels of the three B vitamins and betaine involved with homocysteine’s metabolism are consumed.
Psychological stress can temporarily increase homocysteine levels and higher levels of hostility are usually associated with higher levels of homocysteine.
What foods should be avoided with high homocysteine levels?
Foods to limit with high homocysteine levels include excess red meat, processed foods, and excessive alcohol. High intake of these can increase homocysteine because they are rich in the amino acid methionine or can interfere with the metabolism of B vitamins, which are essential for breaking down homocysteine.
How to lower homocysteine levels
To lower homocysteine levels foods rich in the following must be consumed regularly. Follow links to find out highest natural food sources of them.
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