Homocysteine
Homocysteine is an amino acid formed during protein metabolism. To break it down, your body needs B vitamins (B12, folate, B6). If these are lacking, homocysteine accumulates.
| Rating | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Good | below 10 µmol/L | At optimum — your blood vessels are protected. |
| Worth improving | 10 – 15 µmol/L | Slightly elevated — often a deficiency of B6/B12/folate. |
| Talk to a doctor | 15 µmol/L and above | Elevated — check your B vitamins; seek advice. |
This marker also has 5 age- or sex-specific range sets in the app — the table shows the general one.
Why it matters
An elevated level often points to a B-vitamin deficiency (folate, B12, B6).
If it’s low
Low homocysteine is favorable and no cause for concern.
If it’s high
Elevated homocysteine often means a deficiency of B12, folate or B6; it can also indicate poorer kidney function. The clinical benefit of lowering it alone is limited, but low B-vitamin levels are worth correcting.
What to do
Check and correct B12/folate/B6 (food or a supplement after consultation), limit alcohol. Homocysteine is more of an indicator than a standalone target.
Read together with
Vitamin B12 · Folate · eGFR
Part of the guide: Inflammation →
Articles about this marker
- High homocysteine: what it means and how to lower itMarker explained
- Vitamin B12 and folate: what they mean and how to raise themMarker explained
This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.
Your number, not the average
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