B Vitamins Lower Homocysteine Levels in Blood

Higher-than-recommended amounts of folate and vitamin B6 may help reduce risk of heart attack by reducing blood levels of homocysteine, an amino acid believed to damage blood vessels and contribute to fatty plaque buildup in arteries.

About 40 percent of people with heart disease have elevated levels of homocysteine in their blood.

The lowest risk of heart attack occurred in people who consumed more than 400 micrograms of folate and more than 3 milligrams of B6 each day. The current recommended dietary allowance for folate is 400 micrograms for both men and women; for vitamin B6, the RDA is 1.6 milligrams for women and 2 milligrams for men.

Taking additional amounts of vitamin B12 is also suggested, since excessive intake of folate may lead to a deficiency in that nutrient, which helps prevent anemia and maintain the nervous system. Good food sources of folate include green leafy vegetables, fortified cereals and legumes. B6 is found in poultry, fish and potatoes. High amounts of folate is also associated with a reduced risk of birth defects and is recommended for pregnant women.

(JAMA: Volume 279, No. 5)