Question (Feb 17, 2009 at 11:50am)

Feb. 17, 2009 at 11:50am

I'm concerned about inflammation of the coronary arteries, so I've been getting my homocyteine checked and taking B vitamins and folate supplements. Am I doing the right thing?

Posted in Questions by Anonymous

Comments (1)

Joe says:

Coronary inflammation is seen as a key factor in heart attack risk. In the past, it was thought that high levels of homocysteine promoted inflammation. Studies suggested that taking supplements of vitamin B6, B12 and folic acid could reduce homocysteine level and coronary risk.

But science marches on. In recent multiple trials involving both men and women, when homocysteine levels were lowered with the B vitamins and folate, no benefit was observed, either in terms of heart attack or stroke. In fact, in one study, there was even a suggestion of harm. The conclusion: treatment with vitamins B6, B12 and folate offer no protection against heart attack or stroke.

While I no longer take the B vitamins and folate in supplement form, I do eat foods that contain them in natural form: asparagus, spinach, lentils, chicken, fish, nonfat milk and yogurt.
1 | Feb. 17, 2009 at 12:03pm

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