The Homocysteine Controversy: Balancing the Pros and Cons

The homocysteine controversy

Updated August 2023

Mild to moderate hyperhomocysteinemia has emerged as a robust predictor of cardiovascular disease, standing independently from conventional atherothrombotic risk factors. Over the past decade, numerous extensive intervention trials employing B vitamins have been conducted, yielding outcomes that do not support the efficacy of homocysteine-lowering therapy in high-risk patient populations. Furthermore, Mendelian randomization studies have struggled to definitively establish a genetic polymorphism commonly linked to elevated homocysteine levels (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase 677 C>T), as a cardiovascular disease risk factor.

These cumulative findings have given rise to scepticism surrounding the role of homocysteine in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, transforming the once-solid homocysteine hypothesis into a contentious topic. Within this comprehensive review, we endeavour to address this controversy.

Firstly, we illuminate the limitations inherent in Mendelian randomization analyses, which hinder definitive conclusions. Secondly, we recognize that intervention trials exhibit certain characteristics that restrict the interpretation and applicability of their outcomes. Lastly, we explore the possibility that the lowering of homocysteine levels may hold intrinsic benefits but could be counterbalanced by unfavourable side effects induced by B vitamins on atherosclerosis.

We elaborate that these side effects may be linked to the direct adverse consequences of the B-vitamin regimen, particularly the use of high-dose folic acid, or to the proinflammatory and pro-proliferative impacts of B vitamins on advanced atherosclerotic lesions. Full Story

The Homocysteine Controversy and Questionable Quality in Health Products

We were among the pioneers in asserting that both the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries have joined forces to market a plethora of questionable products to the public. In reality, more than half of the supplements being promoted are unnecessary, and even the ones that might have potential benefits are often packed with unhealthy additives that, in many cases, render them ineffective.

The matter of homocysteine has been a subject of significant concern for years. However, recent revelations suggest that it may have been nothing more than a deceptive scheme all along. This underscores the importance of conducting thorough investigations and not blindly accepting information, even when it’s published by supposedly reputable institutions.

We once held the belief that Lef.org was a reliable source of valuable research. However, upon closer scrutiny, we discovered that their content is largely unsubstantiated. Many of their supplements contain inflammatory or allergenic agents, essentially negating the purported benefits of using high-quality ingredients. This raises a fundamental question: Why go to the trouble of sourcing premium materials if they are going to be compromised by the inclusion of unhealthy additives?

Regrettably, numerous companies engage in similar practices. While we may delve into this topic in the future, we currently hold concerns regarding fish oil and seed oil. In our view, seed oil is not conducive to good health and should be steered clear of. Instead, we advocate for two superior oils: pure butter and coconut oil.

Both fish oil and seed oils are abundant in polyunsaturated fats, which possess a high degree of instability and tend to become rancid even at room temperature. Consider the potential implications within your body when such oils are consumed. We encourage you to conduct your own research and contemplate these points. Our aim is to stimulate critical thinking on this matter.

The original publication date for this content was December 25, 2015, and it has been periodically updated over the years, with the most recent update conducted in July 2023.

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