Clinical Study Title:
Improved vascular endothelial function after oral B vitamins: An effect mediated through reduced concentrations of free plasma homocysteine.

Plain English Summary:

There are many risk factors for coronary heart disease, including high levels of homocysteine in the blood. B-vitamin supplementation has been shown to reduce homocysteine levels in the blood. This study looks at the use of vitamin b12 and folic acid to reduce the overall risk of coronary heart disease. A total of 89 males with coronary heart disease were enrolled in the study and given daily supplements of folic acid with vitamin b12 or a placebo. After 2 months of treatment, the blood levels and heart functions were measured again. The participants taking the vitamin combo of folic acid and vitamin b12 had lower homocysteine levels, which led to improved heart functioning. This supports the use of a daily vitamin supplementation including folic acid and vitamin b12 and may result in a reduced risk of coronary heart disease.

Authors

Chambers JC. Ueland PM. Obeid OA. Wrigley J. Refsum H. Kooner JS.

Institution

National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College School of Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.

Country of Publication

United States

Source

Circulation. 102(20):2479-83, 2000 Nov 14.