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Prevent Strokes with Folic Acid

British scientists are claiming that there is evidence demonstrating that folic acid supplements lower the risk of heart diseases and strokes.

"Folic acid is a much undervalued vitamin. Not only does it prevent the serious birth defect spina bifida, but the evidence that it can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke is becoming increasingly persuasive," stated David Wald from the Wolfson Institute for Preventive Medicine, the lead author of the study.

A research published in the latest issue of British Medical Journal suggested that taking folic acid regularly significantly reduces the levels of amino acid homocysteine in the blood, which are directly linked to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

"The evidence is very persuasive that lowering homocysteine with folic acid will lower your risk of heart attack and stroke by about 10-20 percent," commented David Wald.

The British team showed particular interest in patients with genetic mutations, who have high levels of homocysteine in the blood. Study demonstrated that folic acid effectively helps those with genetic mutations to reduce levels of homocysteine and eventually lower vulnerability to heart diseases.

Folic acid is a B vitamin that is responsible for the production of new cells. It is usually recommended to pregnant women.