Talatpaşa Laboratories Group Biochemistry Specialist Prof. Dr. Ahmet Var stated that high homocysteine levels in the blood are a risk factor for heart diseases, dementia and stroke.
Prof. Dr. Ahmet Var stated that if the patient has a high risk of heart disease and has symptoms of vitamin B deficiency, a homocysteine test should be performed.
Providing information about the test, Prof. Dr. Var said, “The homocysteine test is a simple but important blood test that measures homocysteine levels in the blood. High homocysteine levels damage vascular structures and cause obstructive plaques in the vessels. Therefore, high homocysteine is a risk factor for heart disease, dementia and stroke. Homocysteine is actually an amino acid and cannot be taken through nutrition because it is not found in food. Homocysteine helps the biochemical pathways that are important in maintaining a healthy metabolism in the body, which we call methylation, to function properly. A decrease in B group vitamins due to malnutrition and some genetic disorders cause homocysteine accumulation. Homocysteine levels guide physicians in assessing the patient’s cardiovascular risk, evaluating the person’s B6, B12 and folic acid vitamin deficiencies and taking preventive measures.”
EATING HABITS ALSO AFFECT IT
Noting that dietary habits have an impact on homocysteine levels, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Var continued as follows: “If you have a high risk of heart disease and symptoms of vitamin B deficiency, you should have a homocysteine test. The most common symptoms of vitamin B deficiency include dizziness, fatigue, muscle weakness, tingling in the feet, arms and hands, memory problems, irritability and forgetfulness. Observational studies have shown that high intake of fruits and vegetables, which are the main sources of folate, is associated with lower rates of stroke and coronary heart disease. However, taking vitamin supplements alone does not reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, exercise and quitting smoking will also positively affect heart health.”
Prof. Dr. Ahmet Var finally made the following statement: “Data obtained from studies show that chronic high alcohol consumption, smoking and heavy coffee consumption are associated with high homocysteine levels, while physical activity can reduce homocysteine levels to ideal levels. Homocysteine levels can be controlled safely and inexpensively by increasing fruit and vegetable intake and using folic acid and B vitamin supplements.”
