What are the reasons for High Homocysteine Levels and treatments ?

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NationalNutrition 2 years 2022-06-22T18:43:59+00:00 0 Answer 0

Answer ( 1 )

  1. Because protein rich diets are high in methionine they consequently produce high levels of homocysteine. For this reason, diets rich in animal protein but low in fruits and leafy vegetables tend to promote high homocysteine levels. In addition, insufficient consumption of green vegetables results in inadequate intake of B vitamins and folic acid which are essential for homocysteine breakdown. High stress levels can also contribute to high circulating homocysteine.

    The body’s levels of neurotransmitters epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine increase when exposed to stress. The body uses the methionine-homocysteine pathway to break these neurotransmitters down and return to a non-stressed state. Researchers have also noticed a correlation between coffee consumption and high homocysteine levels. It seems that as coffee intake goes up, so too does homocysteine.

    Naturopathic treatment is similar in dietary approach. Emphasis is on increased consumption of foods rich in B6, B12, and folic acid. Folate rich foods include beans and legumes,broccoli, asparagus, and leafy greens such as spinach. B6 and B12 are found in most meats and fortified cereals and B6 is additionally found in bananas, sweet potato, and spinach. In addition, it is recommended that methionine-rich foods such as red meat and dairy be avoided. It is advisable to reduce foods high in animal protein to a daily max of 3-4oz (120g).

    For more reference check https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/homocysteine/

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