Homocysteine

Elevated homocysteine increases risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke and abnormal blood clots by damaging blood-vessel lining and promoting inflammation and oxidative stress. It’s linked to cognitive decline and pregnancy complications (including neural tube defects). High levels often reflect B12, folate or B6 deficiency, kidney disease, or genetic issues; treatment focuses on correcting deficiencies, lifestyle changes and managing underlying conditions to lower risks.

Lower homocysteine by ensuring adequate B vitamins—folate, B12 and B6—through diet (leafy greens, legumes, fortified cereals) or supplements if deficient. Quit smoking, limit alcohol, and exercise regularly. Manage kidney disease and review medications that affect levels. Have your homocysteine tested and follow a clinician’s advice on supplementation or treatment for personalized care.

Approximate normal fasting total homocysteine levels by age: newborns/infants 4–8 µmol/L; children 5–10 µmol/L; adolescents and adults (18–64) 5–15 µmol/L; older adults (65+) often slightly higher, 8–20 µmol/L. Reference ranges and assays differ between labs; some guidelines use <15 µmol/L for adults. Levels rise with aging, renal impairment, and B12/folate deficiencies—discuss abnormal results with your clinician.

Foods high in methionine—red and processed meats, poultry, fish, eggs and some dairy—can raise homocysteine when B‑vitamin intake is inadequate. Diets low in folate, vitamin B12 and B6 (few leafy greens, legumes or fortified grains) predispose to higher levels. Excessive alcohol and heavy coffee consumption are also linked to raised homocysteine. Include leafy greens, legumes, nuts and fortified cereals for protection.

Doctors treat high homocysteine by correcting deficiencies and underlying causes: prescribe B‑vitamins—folic acid (or methylfolate), vitamin B12 and B6—to lower levels, recommend a folate‑rich diet, stop smoking and limit alcohol, and address contributing conditions (renal disease, hypothyroidism) or interacting drugs. Regular monitoring of homocysteine and vitamin status guides ongoing therapy and dose adjustment.

Yes — regular moderate aerobic exercise like brisk walking can modestly lower plasma homocysteine as part of an overall healthy lifestyle. The reduction is usually smaller than that achieved by correcting folate, vitamin B6 and B12 deficiencies or treating medical causes. Consistent activity, a B‑vitamin–rich diet and medical evaluation are recommended to achieve meaningful, sustained reductions.