In Brief: Homocysteine: Turns out not to B so simple

In Brief

Homocysteine: Turns out not to B so simple

Start with research showing that homocysteine, an amino acid in the blood, is biologically related to the atherosclerotic process that plugs up arteries. Add evidence that people with high homocysteine levels are more likely to have heart attacks or strokes. Consider that the vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid ratchet down homocysteine. The result: A hope that this trio of B vitamins (folic acid is in the B vitamin group) might be an important — and relatively inexpensive — way to gird ourselves against the assault of cardiovascular disease.

That optimism will be much harder to keep afloat after the publication of two large studies in the New England Journal of Medicine in March 2006. In the Norwegian Vitamin Trial, over 3,500 heart attack survivors were randomized to take various combinations of the B vitamins (all three; folic acid and vitamin B12; just vitamin B6) or a placebo and followed for about 3½ years. In the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation 2 study, about 5,500 people with vascular disease or diabetes were randomized to take the three B vitamins or a placebo for five years.

To continue reading this article, you must log in.

Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.

  • Research health conditions
  • Check your symptoms
  • Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
  • Find the best treatments and procedures for you
  • Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
Learn more about the many benefits and features of joining Harvard Health Online »

I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.

Sign Me Up

Already a member? Login ».

Disclaimer:

As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE gift.

The Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness, is yours absolutely FREE when you sign up to receive Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle, with ways to fight inflammation and improve cognitive health, plus the latest advances in preventative medicine, diet and exercise, pain relief, blood pressure and cholesterol management, and more.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Health Alerts from Harvard Medical School

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss...from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts.

BONUS! Sign up now and
get a FREE copy of the
Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness.