ischemic heart disease epidemiology

There is a simple test that enables doctors to find out whether you are vulnerable to Alzheimer's disease, atherosclerosis, heart disease and strokes. Let me explain how it works.

Homocysteine is an amino acid, which can be measured by a simple blood test. There is also an excellent marker for "methylation" (a procedure which by the detoxification of our body).

The New England Journal of Medicine reported that those with the highest homocysteine are nearly twice as likely to develop dementia or Alzheimer's disease, such as those with the lowest level.

The study provides "convincing evidence" that high homocysteine levels, the older people at risk for Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia, according to Dr. Joseph Loscalzo of the Boston University Medical Center.

Since certain B vitamins and other nutrients can homocysteine levels, Loscalzo notes in an accompanying editorial, "It is fascinating to explore the possibility that consumption of these vitamins can prevent the development of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias" .

The National Institute on Aging, the financing of the current research, is already planning a study to see whether high doses of folic acid and vitamin B6 and B12 can prevent or slow the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Relationship between elevated homocysteine and atherosclerosis, heart and stroke are well established.

I recommend all my patients that their multivitamin contains 40 mg. B6, folic acid 400-800 micrograms and 100 micrograms of B12. Everyone should be examined homocysteine in the blood, so that their degenerative conditions can be prevented.

30% of us are "genetically wired" require much greater amounts of these nutrients to ward off the negative effects. A simple homocysteine test is relatively inexpensive and can be ordered through our office. If your next appointment, talk to us or talk to your local doctor.