Homocysteine plays a role in the genesis of atherosclerosis and, thus, it is considered an important and prevalent risk factor for peripheral arterial disease. Impaired vitamin nutritional status, especially regarding folate, may be mainly attributed to hyperhomocysteinemia. Although there is still no consensus as to the exact dose and method of use of folate in supplements, dietary adjustment or cereal fortification for the treatment of hyperhomocysteinemia, several studies conducted in patients with peripheral vascular disease have shown that isolated folate may reduce homocysteine levels, as well as the levels of some biological markers in the atherosclerotic process. However, recent studies have not corroborated this benefit for the inflammatory process associated with hyperhomocysteinemia. Consequently, although the use of folate is a cost-effective therapy for the control of hyperhomocysteinemia, its impact on the evolution of vascular diseases remains inconclusive. This literature review addresses the effects of several forms of folate therapies in the treatment of hyperhomocysteinemia.
Homocysteine; atherosclerosis; vitamin; folic acid
