Homocysteine is an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease. High blood levels may directly damage the delicate endothelial cells that line the inside of arteries and result in vascular inflammation, blood clot formation, and arterial plaque rupture. Studies have shown that even moderate levels of homocysteine pose an increased risk for arterial plaque formation when compared with the lowest 20th percentile (<7.2 mcmol/L) of population controls.

Life Extension® believes an ideal homocysteine to be <8 µmol/L.

Instructions

This test may be done fasting or 2-6 hours after eating. Both ways provide valuable information, though 2-6 hours after a meal provides a more realistic assessment of the state of your blood in everyday life. Stay hydrated and take your medications as prescribed.