An inflamed heart, bad arteries, and a shrinking brain are all consequences of the same culprit that can send you to the grave sooner. This culprit is a naturally occurring amino acid called homocysteine. Homocysteine is created in your body when it breaks down protein. When you don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables along with excessive amounts of protein, this can lead to high levels of homocysteine in your blood.
High Homocysteine and Its Risks
High levels of homocysteine are extremely hazardous to your health. It has been linked to heart attacks, strokes, blood clots, and the well-known cholesterol myth. Research has shown that homocysteine is the true culprit behind plaques which cause damage to your heart.
This hazardous substance also causes your brain cells to die, causing your brain to age faster and shrink, leaving you at higher risk for Alzheimer’s. So, it is essential to reduce the homocysteine levels in your blood.
Homocysteine’s Effects on the Body
No one should be surprised that homocysteine has a systemic effect on the entire body. High levels of homocysteine can lead to a chain reaction in your body, resulting in the downfall of your health, such as:
- Heart inflammation, which is an initial red flag and is considered the root of diseases.
- Negative effects on blood platelets, setting you up for blood clots.
- Brain cells dying rapidly, causing your brain to age faster than normal.
Reducing your homocysteine levels in your blood is the only way to save your brain from rapid aging and shrinking.
The Vitamin Antidote
One very effective way to reduce homocysteine levels and slow the aging of your brain is through vitamin B12. Research indicates that higher levels of B12 can slow the aging of your brain. This is because B12 (along with other B vitamins) is necessary for your body to remove homocysteine from your bloodstream.
If you want to avoid brain shrinkage and the health hazards that come with high levels of homocysteine, boost your intake of B12 as soon as possible. Also, increase your levels of B6 and B9.
Foods Rich in B Vitamins
You can boost your intake of Vitamin B12, B6, and B9 by consuming foods rich in B vitamins, such as:
- Grass-fed beef
- Dairy products
- Eggs
- Fish
- Fruits
- Liver
- Peas
- Pork
- Poultry
- Rice
- Shellfish
- Spinach
- Sunflower seeds
- Walnuts
If you believe you are at high risk for increased homocysteine levels (such as due to a long-term dietary deficiency in essential B vitamins), you can also invest in B supplements.
Conclusion
By reducing the homocysteine levels in your blood and taking control of your intake of B vitamins, you can keep your heart and brain healthy. Remember, high homocysteine levels are avoidable and preventable, so take action today by incorporating B vitamin-rich foods into your diet. Your heart and brain will thank you!
