Glossary

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Homocysteine: An amino acid that is found normally in the body. Recent studies suggest that high blood levels of this substance may increase a person's chances of developing heart disease, stroke and reduced blood flow to the hands and feet. It is believed that high levels of homocysteine may damage the arteries, make the blood more likely to clot and/or make blood vessels less flexible. Homocysteine levels are affected by the consumption of three vitamins—folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12. People who consume less than the recommended daily amounts of these vitamins are more likely to have higher homocysteine levels. Recommended daily amounts are as follows: 400 micrograms of folic acid, 2 milligrams of B6, and 6 micrograms of B12. It has not yet been proven that lowering homocysteine levels will help prevent heart or blood vessel disease.