Homocysteine is an amino acid normally found in the body. People who have very high levels of homocysteine may be at increased risk for atherosclerosis and peripheral arterial disease (PAD), although studies indicate that this link may be weaker than once believed.1
It is thought that high levels of homocysteine damage the lining of the arteries. This damage promotes plaque buildup, which over time can lead to peripheral arterial disease. The relationship between homocysteine and PAD is not entirely understood.
Scientists have found that changes (mutations) in a particular gene (MTHFR) are related to elevated homocysteine levels in some people. Tests for homocysteine levels or mutations in the MTHFR gene may be indicated for some people (for example, those who have had a heart attack at a young age or those with a strong family history of heart disease).
The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, which can lower blood pressure, also reduces levels of homocysteine. The DASH diet emphasizes eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and foods rich in vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid.2
References
Citations
Clarke R, et al. (2002). Homocysteine and risk of heart disease and stroke. JAMA, 288(16): 2015–2022.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (2006). Your Guide to Lowering Your Blood Pressure With DASH (NIH Publication No. 06-4082). Available online: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/dash/new_dash.pdf.
Credits
| Author | Robin Parks, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery |
| Last Updated | October 30, 2007 |
