High homocysteine. Should i consult.

Homocysteine is an amino acid (a building block of protein) that is produced in the body.High homocysteine levels in the blood can damage the lining of the arteries. High levels may also make the blood clot more easily than it should. This can increase the risk of blood vessel blockages. Homocysteine is normally changed into other amino acids for use by the body. Vitamin B helps your body use the homocysteine. If your homocysteine level is too high, you may not be getting enough B vitamins. Most people who have a high homocysteine level don’t get enough folate (also called folic acid), vitamin B6, or vitamin B12 in their diet. Replacing these vitamins often helps return the homocysteine level to normal. Other possible causes of a high homocysteine level include: - low levels of thyroid hormone - kidney disease - psoriasis - some medicines - when the condition runs in your family. The following steps can help with lowering the homocysteine levels: - Eating more fruits and vegetables can help lower your homocysteine level. Leafy green vegetables such as spinach are good sources of folate. fortified grain products, lentils, asparagus and most beans are rich in folate. - You may need to increase the amount of vitamin B-6 in your diet such as fortified breakfast cereals, potatoes, bananas, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), chicken. - You also may need to increase the amount of vitamin B-12 such as dairy products, organ meats (such as liver), beef and some types of fish. You can consult with an MD general physician or endocrinologist.