Why this matters
See the two main routes for processing homocysteine and what may affect a blood result.
How the pieces connect
Your body can recycle homocysteine toward methionine or move it toward cysteine. Nutrition, kidney function, medicines, genes, and daily habits may all affect the picture.
Two routes through one metabolic junction
Dr. Purser describes homocysteine as a junction in sulfur-amino-acid metabolism. Remethylation returns it toward methionine, while transsulfuration moves it toward cysteine. Folate and B12 appear in the recycling discussion; B6 appears in the transsulfuration discussion. These names describe connected reactions rather than a list of supplements everyone needs. The useful next step in learning is to distinguish a pathway diagram from a measurement of how that pathway is functioning in an individual.
Keep in mind
A possible connection in the body does not prove that a treatment improves health. Compare what was studied with your own results and talk with your clinician before changing care.
A question for your next conversation
What other information would help interpret the result: nutritional status, kidney function, medicines or an inherited disorder?
BUILD YOUR UNDERSTANDING
A few concepts, made clearer.
L-Methionine
An amino acid used in protein synthesis and other metabolic processes.
Read the full referenceVitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Needed for nerve function, DNA production and healthy red blood cells.
Read the full referenceVitamin B9 (Folate)
Supports DNA synthesis and one-carbon metabolism, including the pathway that processes homocysteine.
Read the full referenceMTHFR
Makes an enzyme that helps produce a form of folate used in the processing of homocysteine. Common variants are different from rare variants that cause severe MTHFR deficiency.
Read the full referenceLET YOUR CURIOSITY LEAD
One idea opens another.
Choose a subject to find the related teaching across videos, articles, courses and references.
EXPLORE WITH YOUR CARE TEAM
Supplements to explore
Compare the products below, including their ingredients and available forms. Your care team can help you choose one or more options for your needs.
Explore supplements Dr. Purser discusses for methylation and antioxidant support.
Different products offer different forms and amounts. Compare the labels with your clinician to find what fits your needs.
COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS
Methylation support
Compare supplement options related to Vitamin B12.
MTHFR Daily and Hydroxy B12 + Folinic Acid are alternatives. Your folate, vitamin B12, and genetic results can help your clinician choose between them.
SUPPLEMENT OPTIONS
Adenosyl + Hydroxy B12
Compare supplement options related to Vitamin B12.
SUPPLEMENT OPTIONS
Vitamin B9 supplement options
Compare supplement options related to Vitamin B9.
SUPPLEMENT OPTIONS
N-Acetyl-Cysteine
Compare supplement options related to Cysteine.
See more supplement options
SUPPLEMENT OPTIONS
L-Methionine
Compare supplement options related to Methionine.
SUPPLEMENT OPTIONS
Super Liquid Folate
Compare supplement options related to Vitamin B9.
SUPPLEMENT OPTIONS
Amino Acid Complex
This formula brings several nutrients together in one supplement.
An amino acid complex may be considered when your test shows a need for at least four different amino acids. Cysteine, taurine, and tryptophan are considered separately.
CAPSULES & LIQUID
Glutathione options
Choose between capsule and liquid forms with your clinician.
SUPPLEMENT OPTIONS
VARS SOD
Ask your clinician how this option fits your results and current medicines.
SUPPLEMENT OPTIONS
VARS Catalase Support
Ask your clinician how this option fits your results and current medicines.
Tell your care team which supplements and medicines you already take. Check the product page for current ingredients, prices, and availability.
