Your Heart Can’t Afford NOT to Have Folic Acid
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The message that women of childbearing years need folic acid supplementation is widely known. However, the message that folic acid provides excellent protection for your heart is not nearly as prevalent. Yet, study after study has proven that supplements containing the B vitamin folic acid may help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and blood clots associated with high levels of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood:
“Folic acid is important in bone health due to its involvement in the metabolism of homocysteine, a potentially toxic compound. Studies have shown that people with high levels of homocysteine developed severe osteoporosis at an early age, possibly due to an adverse effect of homocysteine on bone. It appears that menopause is associated with a requirement for folic acid, probably to keep homocysteine levels in check.” (From Menopause Symptom)
Although our bodies manufacture homocysteine, high blood levels can be dangerous and a risk factor for heart disease. In fact, researchers have demonstrated that with each unit increase of homocysteine, the risk of ischemic heart disease (reduces blood flow to the heart) increases by 32 to 42 percent. In addition, a large U.S. government study in 2002 found that people who consume the most folic acid through either diet or supplements have a lower risk of stroke and heart disease than those consuming little folate:
“The benefits of folic acid do not recognize a specific age group. So no matter how old you are, foods that are rich in folic acid are good for you. It’s not only mothers who should take lots of folate-rich food.” (From BreakThruDiet.com)
Thankfully, folic acid helps break down homocysteine. Many scientific researchers and physicians believe that the use of daily folic acid supplements will reduce the risks of heart disease, stroke and deep vein thrombosis.
If you have been told you have high homocysteine levels or are at risk for heart disease, talk to your doctor about the healthy heart benefits of folic acid consumption. Folic acid is available from your local health store or click here to purchase from Physician’s Preference.
This entry was posted on Thursday, August 17th, 2006 at 2:32 pm and is filed under Health & Wellness. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
