July 27, 2005

By: Sara Collin
Website: http://www.1st-in-vitamins.com

New research shows Folic acid can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke

New research published in the BMJ shows that folic acid, a vitamin in the B group already known to prevent spina bifida, also prevents heart attacks and strokes.

A team of researchers at Barts and The London, Queen Mary’s School of Medicine and at Southampton General Hospital, used the results of existing studies to show that a substance in the blood, homocysteine, is a cause heart attack and stroke. Folic acid is known to be effective in reducing homocysteine in the blood. While it has been known for some years that homocysteine is associated with heart attacks and strokes it was not known that it caused them.

About one in ten people have an abnormal gene that results in their homocysteine levels being about 20% higher than average. This gene is no more common in smokers, those who have high blood cholesterol levels, or those who have high blood pressure. The abnormal gene is not associated with any other known risk factors for heart attacks and strokes, so any difference in the risk of heart attack and stroke between those with or without the gene can only be attributed to the effect of the gene in raising homocysteine levels.

About The Author:

Sara Collin is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-vitamins.com.  Recommending the best vitamins, minerals, herbs and weight loss products for optimum health.