Homocysteine

Inflammation marker

Homocysteine

Category: Inflammation
Unit: umol/L

Amino acid in the blood. Elevated levels are an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke, blood clots, and cognitive decline. Metabolised by B-vitamins (B6, B12, Folate).

PED Notes

An often-overlooked cardiovascular risk marker for PED users. Elevated homocysteine damages blood vessel walls and promotes clotting -- compounding the cardiovascular risk from AAS-worsened lipids and elevated haematocrit. Some AAS may affect homocysteine metabolism. Target <10 umol/L for optimal cardiovascular protection.

Supplements (first-line -- B-vitamin cofactors):

  • B12 (Methylcobalamin) -- 1000mcg/day
  • Folate (Methylfolate) -- 800mcg/day
  • B6 (P5P) -- 50mg/day

Lifestyle:

  • Reduce alcohol, improve overall diet quality

If persistently elevated: Consider MTHFR genetic testing -- gene variants can impair homocysteine metabolism

References:

  • Huang, T., Chen, Y., Yang, B., et al. (2012). Meta-analysis of B vitamin supplementation on plasma homocysteine, cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Clinical Nutrition, 31(4), 448-454. DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2011.01.003
  • Stabler, S. P. (2013). Vitamin B12 deficiency. New England Journal of Medicine, 368(2), 149-160. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMcp1113996
  • Bailey, L. B., & Gregory, J. F., III. (1999). Folate metabolism and requirements. Journal of Nutrition, 129(4), 779-782. DOI: 10.1093/jn/129.4.779

History Chart

Reading History

Frequently Asked Questions

Reference Ranges

Standard Range

5 - 15 umol/L

VitalMetrics Range

5 - 10 umol/L

Statistics