High Homocysteine, Low Folate, and B12 Predict Macular Degeneration

An article published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports the finding of a protective effect for higher levels of vitamin B12 and folate against the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD).* The study also revealed a greater risk of AMD in association with higher levels of homocysteine. Paul Mitchell and his colleagues analyzed data from 1,390 participants in the Blue Mountains Eye Study of common eye diseases. Eye examinations were conducted upon enrollment and at five, ten, and fifteen years. Serum homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 levels were measured and dietary questionnaires were completed at the five-year follow-up visit. From the five-year through the fifteen-year follow-up visit, 219 subjects were diagnosed with AMD. In comparison with those with lower homocysteine levels, participants whose levels were greater than 15 micromoles per liter had an up to 56% greater risk of AMD. Editor’s Note: Among those with deficient folate levels, the risk of AMD was up to 89% higher in comparison with the risk experienced by subjects with greater levels. Vitamin B12 deficiency also increased risk. —D. Dye

Reference Am J Clin Nutr. 2013 May 1. To purchase click here: http://isotonix.marketamerica.com/knapp/USA/Search/Product/2241