Folic Acid, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12
Cardiovascular disease, the number-one killer of men and women, claims the lives of almost 40% of the more than 2.4 million Americans who die each year. Today, about 64 million Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease.
Homocysteine a nonessential, sulfur-containing amino acid, is an independent marker of risk for the development of cardiovascular disease. Back in 1981, we first recommended that members reduce homocysteine levels by taking folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12.
Some researchers consider homocysteine as important a cardiovascular risk factor as low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Homocysteine can make blood clot more easily than normal, increasing the risk of both heart attack and death by heart attack.
Inadequate levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 can lead to increased homocysteine levels. 
Folic Acid Sources
Whole grain breads
Fortified cereals
Dried peas
Dried beans
Leafy vegetables
Fruit
 Vitamin B6 is found in a wide variety of foods.
Fortified breakfast cereals
Fish including salmon and tuna fish
Meats such as pork and chicken
Bananas
Beans
Peanut butter
Many vegetables
Sources of Vitamin B12
The only reliable unfortified sources of vitamin B12 are meat, dairy products and eggs.
The current nutritional consensus is that no plant foods can be relied on as a safe source of vitamin B12.Labels: Cardiovascular disease |
