Homocysteine Blood Test
A look at an important longevity and cardiovascular disease risk biomarker.
Service Description
A Homocysteine Blood Test measures the amount of homocysteine in a sample of your blood. Homocysteine is an amino acid, a molecule that your body uses to make proteins. Normally, your homocysteine levels are low. That's because your body uses vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and folic acid (also called folate or vitamin B9) to quickly break down homocysteine and change it into other substances that your body needs. High levels of homocysteine in your blood may be a sign that this process isn't working properly or that you're lacking certain B vitamins. High levels of homocysteine can damage the inside of your arteries and increase your risk of forming blood clots. This may increase your risk for heart attack, stroke, and other heart diseases and blood vessel disorders. Results within 48 hours. PLEASE NOTE: You are required to fast for at least 6 hours before your blood test. You may still consume water. In fact, it's better for blood draws if you are well hydrated!