Homocysteine Support

In recent years homocysteine has received increasing attention because of a growing understanding of its impact on cardiovascular health and other key areas. Homocysteine is an amino acid produced in the body as a result of chemical reactions involving methionine, an amino acid common in food, especially meat. Normally homocysteine is converted to other amino acids but when a build up occurs it can have a harmful effect on the body.

Increased homocysteine levels are associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Homocysteine causes cholesterol to oxidize to LDL which damages the arteries, promoting atherosclerosis. It may also make the blood clot more easily. Clinical studies confirmed that for every 10% rise in the level of homocysteine in the blood there is an almost equal rise in the risk of developing severe coronary heart disease.

How can you counteract homocysteine? It is relatively easy to lower levels of homocysteine. In most cases high homocysteine results from low levels of folic acid, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12. These vitamins are required to transform homocysteine into less harmful forms. Homocysteine Support by Vitabase provides significant amounts of Folic Acid, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12. In addition the formula includes Trimethylglycine also commonly known as Betaine. Betaine is another nutrient which is highly effective at reducing homocysteine. One study showed that supplementation of the B vitamins reduced stroke risk by 25%. To keep homocysteine levels in check, supplementation must be maintained on a long-term basis.