Homocysteine

homocysteine

Homocysteine is a small molecule your body makes when it breaks down the building blocks of protein called amino acids. Under normal conditions it is quickly converted into other, harmless substances, but when this processing is slow or impaired, homocysteine levels in the blood can rise. Higher levels have been linked to damage in blood vessel walls and a greater risk of heart disease, stroke, and other circulation problems. Elevated amounts can result from genetic differences, poor kidney function, certain medications, or a lack of vitamins that help with conversion. Doctors measure it with a simple blood test to learn whether someone might have a higher vascular risk or a vitamin deficiency. Importantly, homocysteine is both a useful marker of risk and a potential contributor to blood vessel harm, so addressing high levels can be part of prevention strategies. Levels often fall with improvements in nutrition, especially adequate intake of certain B vitamins, and with lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and increasing physical activity. While lowering levels is a practical step, it’s one part of a broader approach to heart and brain health rather than a guaranteed cure.