What is homocysteine?

Homocysteine is an amino acid that occurs naturally in all organisms. It is an intermediate product of the metabolism of the amino acids methionine and cysteine. Homocysteine is regulated by a number of enzymes that control its concentration in the blood.

However, malfunctioning of these enzymes or deficiencies in vitamins such as vitamin B12, B6 and folic acid can lead to an increase in homocysteine levels in the body.

Homocysteine levels and risk of cardiovascular disease

Scientific studies have shown that an increase in homocysteine levels in the blood is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, atherosclerosis and hypertension.

The mechanism of action of abnormally high homocysteine levels on the cardiovascular system is not fully understood, but it is thought to affect damage to blood vessel walls and inflammatory processes in the body.

Lifestyle and homocysteine levels

It turns out that lifestyle has a significant impact on homocysteine levels in the blood. Several factors can contribute to its increase, such as:

Inadequate diet A lack of adequate nutrients, such as vitamins B12, B6 and folic acid, can lead to deficiencies and an increase in homocysteine levels. A diet rich in meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, leafy vegetables and nuts can help maintain healthy homocysteine levels.Cigarette smoking Smoking cigarettes is associated not only with the risk of cardiovascular disease, but also with elevated homocysteine levels.Excessive alcohol consumption excessive alcohol consumption can lead to decreased absorption and metabolism of certain vitamins, such as vitamin B12, which can cause increased homocysteine levels.Lack of physical activity Regular physical activity can help maintain healthy homocysteine levels. Lack of exercise leads to reduced blood flow and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

How to lower homocysteine levels?

Lowering homocysteine levels can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Here are some ways that can help maintain healthy homocysteine levels:

The presence of adequate nutrients in the diet Eating foods rich in vitamins B12, B6 and folic acid is important for maintaining healthy homocysteine levels. Include foods such as whole-grain cereal products, spinach, broccoli, eggs and nuts in the diet.Reduce alcohol consumption Reducing alcohol consumption can help maintain healthy homocysteine levels, as excessive alcohol consumption can affect the metabolism of certain vitamins, such as vitamin B12.Stop smoking cigarettes Smoking cigarettes has been linked to a number of harmful health effects, including elevated homocysteine levels.Physical activity Regular physical activity improves blood circulation and can help maintain healthy homocysteine levels.

Summary

Lifestyle has a huge impact on blood homocysteine levels and the risk of cardiovascular disease. Adequate diet, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption and regular physical activity are key factors that can help maintain healthy homocysteine levels.

It is worth remembering that maintaining a balance in these factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve overall health.