The H Factor Solution: Homocysteine, the Best Single Indicator of Whether You Are Likely to Live Long or Die Young

by James Braly, Patrick Holford

Elevated homocysteine is a powerful, independent risk factor in more than 100 major medical conditions, including heart disease, strokes, and Alzheimer's disease. The authors discuss factors that contribute to high homocysteine, tell how to detect it if it's too high, and explain how to dramatically lower it.

Genres: Health, Medicine

258 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2003

Reviews

[Olwen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easy to read and understand book that explains the biochemistry behind homocysteine metabolism and how elevated homocysteine can affect you. A good book to read and then discuss with your health practitioner before taking action on testing or supplementation.

[Sue · Rating 3 out of 5]

After researching this topic extensively, I found this book repeated a lot I already knew. However, I did learn something useful in the recommended supplementation. I have not seen many reference a to B2, but adding it to my regime, has been invaluable for reducing my histamine symptoms.

[Dr Ranjan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Homocysteine is produced during the metabolism of methionine, an essential amino acid. Under normal conditions, the body utilizes vitamins B6, B12, and folate to convert homocysteine into other beneficial substances. Deficiencies in these vitamins leads to elevated homocysteine levels, damaging arterial linings and excess blood clot formation.

High homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of over 100 medical conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and certain cancers .
🧪Regular blood tests can measure homocysteine levels, with values above 15 micromoles per liter indicating hyperhomocysteinemia .

Dietary Adjustments: Increasing intake of B vitamins through diet—such as leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals helps to maintain homocysteine levels.

Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and managing stress by Meditation is helpful for maintaining healthy homocysteine levels.