High homocysteine levels may double risk of dementia, Alzheimer...( dementia and AD. The association betwe...),Health

There was no direct association in this study between the serum levels of folate and vitamins B6 and B12 and the development of dementia among the participants. As the relationship between these B vitamin levels, homocysteine, AD, and cardiovascular disease continues to be studied, scientists speculate that consuming adequate amounts of B vitamins by diet or supplementation might help reduce levels of homocysteine in some individuals. Findings from the NHLBI-supported DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) study suggest that a diet rich in green leafy vegetables, low-fat dairy products, citrus fruits and juices, whole wheat bread, and dry beans can significantly lower levels of homocysteine. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now requires the addition of folic acid to enriched breads, cereals, flours, corn meals, pastas, rice, and other grain products. Although there is no evidence that actually reducing homocysteine levels will prevent AD or cardiovascular disease, a healthy diet low in fat and rich in nutrients is always a good idea, says BUs Wolf.

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Contact: Vicky Cahan
cahanv@nia.nih.gov
301-496-1752
NIH/National Institute on Aging
13-Feb-2002