Homocysteine is a sulfur-containing amino acid produced during the metabolism of methionine, an essential amino acid. It plays a key role in methylation, detoxification, and cardiovascular function. Elevated homocysteine levels have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, cognitive decline, and pregnancy complications. Imbalances may result from deficiencies in B vitamins (especially B6, B12, and folate), impaired methylation, or genetic variants such as MTHFR. Monitoring homocysteine levels can provide valuable insights into cardiovascular, neurological, and metabolic health.
Elevated homocysteine is often associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, reduced detoxification, inflammation, and neurological issues such as memory problems or mood disorders.
Common causes include deficiencies in vitamin B6, B12, or folate, genetic polymorphisms (e.g., MTHFR), poor methylation, chronic stress, and kidney dysfunction.
High homocysteine often has no symptoms, but may be linked to fatigue, brain fog, irritability, or numbness and tingling if left untreated.
Improving B-vitamin levels—especially folate, B6, and B12—through diet or supplementation can help normalize homocysteine. Addressing methylation imbalances may also be necessary.
Because it reflects both cardiovascular and methylation health, monitoring homocysteine can help identify silent imbalances that may contribute to chronic disease if left untreated.