Homocysteine is an amino acid that’s closely concerned in a organic course of referred to as methylation. Throughout methylation, the bioactive type of folate (5-MTHF) donates a methyl group to homocysteine so it may be transformed into one other amino acid, methionine. When working optimally, methylation promotes cardiovascular, neurological, and reproductive well being; aids power manufacturing; bolsters cleansing pathways; helps longevity; and extra.

The issue is that greater than 50% of the U.S. inhabitants has a genetic mutation of the MTHFR gene that inhibits the physique’s capacity to activate folate, so it can’t optimize methylation. If bioactive folate isn’t accessible to assist convert homocysteine through the methylation cycle (i.e., attributable to an MTHFR gene variation or different causes—comparable to poor eating regimen, hormone imbalances, stress, or publicity to toxins), homocysteine ranges can turn out to be too excessive.

Elevated homocysteine ranges are linked to a better threat of persistent irritation, poor cleansing, heart problems, autoimmune situations, and sure—dementia.