I have heard that homocysteine is a risk factor for heart disease and that drinking coffee will raise my levels of homocysteine, is this correct?
Homocysteine is a naturally occurring amino acid produced in our bodies to build proteins. In some people it may build up to a high level because of a deficiency in the body’s ability to break it down (or metabolise it). The scientific debate is not conclusive with two schools of thought, one being that raised homocysteine is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and the other being that it is simply a marker for cardiovascular disease. A small number of studies have been published suggesting that coffee drinking raised levels of homocysteine, however, whilst these studies showed a statistical association they were unable to suggest any plausible mechanism of action, or reason for this increase.
Related Questions
- I have heard that homocysteine is a risk factor for heart disease and that drinking coffee will raise my levels of homocysteine, is this correct?
- If I am at high risk for heart disease will my physician screen for homocysteine levels, along with my blood pressure and cholesterol?
- Is coffee drinking considered to be an important risk factor for hypertension / raised blood pressure?
