B vitamins and heart health

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B vitamins and heart health

Cardiovascular diseases (SVD) remain one of the leading causes of mortality around the world. Understanding risk factors and the search for effective prevention and treatment strategies are of paramount importance. Among the many factors affecting the health of the heart, B vitamins attract considerable attention due to their role in key metabolic processes and the potential effect on the cardiovascular system. This comprehensive review is deepened into a complex relationship between group B vitamins and heart health, examining the role of individual B vitamins that underlie mechanisms, clinical data and practical considerations.

B vitamins are a group of eight water -soluble vitamins that play an important role in cellular metabolism. These include thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), pantotenic acid (B5), Pyridoxine (B6), BIOTIN (B7), folic acid (B9) and cobalamin (B12). These vitamins perform the function of coofers in many enzymatic reactions necessary for energy metabolism, DNA synthesis, the functioning of the nervous system and the general physiological function.

Homocystein and heart health

One of the most well -studied connections between group B vitamins and heart health is their role in the metabolism of homocysteine. Homocysteine ​​is an irregular amino acid that is formed during metabolism of methionine, an indispensable amino acid obtained from food. Increased levels of homocysteine ​​in the blood, known as hyperhomocysteinemia, are associated with the increased risk of SVD, including coronary heart disease, stroke and thromboembolia.

Vitamins B6, B9 (folic acid) and B12 play a decisive role in the metabolism of homocysteine. Folic acid acts as a coherent in the transformation of homocysteine ​​into methionine using the enzyme of methioninsyntase. Vitamin B12 operates as a cooferment for methioninxintase, additionally facilitating the removalization of homocysteine ​​in methionine. Vitamin B6 is involved in the path of translucoune, which turns homocysteine ​​into cysteine.

Therefore, the deficiency of one or more of these vitamins of group B can disrupt the metabolism of homocysteine, which will lead to increased homocysteine ​​levels. Hypergomocysteinemia damages endothelial cells, stimulates the proliferation of smooth muscle cells of blood vessels, enhances oxidative stress and promotes thrombosis, all of which are key processes in the development of atherosclerosis and SSZ.

Numerous observatory studies have shown the relationship between an increased level of homocysteine ​​and the increased risk of SVD. The meta-analyzes of randomized controlled studies (RCTs) also appreciated the effect of additives of group B vitamins on the level of homocysteine ​​and cardiovascular outcomes. Although the additives of group B vitamins invariably reduce homocysteine, the effect on cardiovascular outcomes turned out to be less clear. Some studies did not show considerable benefit, while others showed a potential reduction in the risk of stroke, especially in people with the previously existing SVDs.

The ambiguous results of RCTs can be associated with several factors, including the heterogeneity of the studied populations, the differences in the doses and duration of the additives of group B vitamins, as well as the use of various end points of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, it is possible that the advantages of reducing homocysteine ​​levels using group B vitamins can be more pronounced in people with specific genetic predispositions or in those who have a deficiency of several vitamins of group B.

Other mechanisms through which group B vitamins affect the health of the heart

In addition to their role in homocysteine ​​metabolism, group B vitamins affect the health of the heart through other mechanisms, including:

  • Oxidizing stress and inflammation: B vitamins, especially riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3) and pyridoxine (B6), have antioxidant properties and can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key factors in the development of SVD. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the ability of the body to neutralize them. Inflammation is a complex biological response to harmful stimuli, such as infection or tissue damage. Chronic inflammation contributes to the development of atherosclerosis and other SVDs.
  • Endothelium function: Endothelium is a layer of cells lining the inner surface of blood vessels. He plays a decisive role in the regulation of vascular tone, blood coagulation and inflammation. The dysfunction of the endothelium is an early sign of atherosclerosis and is associated with the increased risk of SVD. Some vitamins of group B, such as folic acid and vitamin B12, improve the function of endothelium by increasing the production of nitrogen oxide, powerful vasodilating agent.
  • Lipid metabolism: Niacin (B3) has a deep effect on lipid metabolism. It reduces the level of low density lipoproteins (LDL) or “poor” cholesterol and increases the level of high density lipoproteins (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. Niacin also reduces the level of triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood. These effects make niacin a valuable drug for the treatment of dyslipidemia, a state characterized by an abnormal level of lipid in the blood. However, the use of niacin is associated with side effects, such as redness of the face and hepatotoxicity, which requires thorough observation.
  • Arterial pressure: Some studies have shown that the additives of group B vitamins, especially folic acid, can help reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension. The mechanism underlying this effect may include an improvement in endothelium function and a decrease in homocysteine ​​levels. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal dose and duration of group B vitamins for control of blood pressure.
  • Platelet function: Platelets are blood cells that play a decisive role in blood coagulation. Excessive activation of platelets can lead to blood clots, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Some studies show that vitamin B6 can suppress platelet aggregation and improve platelet function, which potentially reduces the risk of thrombotic events.

Individual vitamins of group B and heart health

Although group B vitamins are often considered as a group, it is important to recognize the unique role of each vitamin in the health of the heart.

  • TIAMIN (B1): Tiamine is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates and the functioning of the nervous system. Tiamin deficiency, known as Beri Bury, can lead to heart failure and other cardiovascular complications. Tiamine plays an important role in the functioning of the heart and helps to prevent damage to the heart.
  • Riboflavin (b2): Riboflavin is a coherent in many redox reactions involved in energy metabolism. It also has antioxidant properties and can help protect from oxidative stress. A lack of riboflavin can lead to hypergomocysteinemia and an increase in the risk of CVD.
  • Niacin (B3): Niacin has a deep effect on the metabolism of lipids, as previously discussed. It also has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. Niacin was used as a medicine for the treatment of dyslipidemia for decades, but its use is limited by side effects.
  • Pantotenic acid (B5): Pantotenic acid is necessary for the synthesis of coherent A (COA), which plays a decisive role in the metabolism of fatty acids and carbohydrates. The deficiency of pantothenic acid is rare, but can contribute to the development of dyslipidemia and other metabolic disorders.
  • Pyridoxin (B6): Pyridoxine is involved in amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis and hemoglobin formation. He also plays a role in the metabolism of homocysteine. Pyridoxine deficiency can lead to hyperhomocysteinemia, oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction.
  • Biotin (B7): Biotin is necessary for the metabolism of fatty acids, carbohydrates and amino acids. He also plays a role in the expression of genes and the regulation of cellular growth. Biotin deficiency is rare, but can contribute to the development of dyslipidemia and other metabolic disorders.
  • Folic acid (B9): Folic acid plays a decisive role in the metabolism of homocysteine ​​and DNA synthesis. Folic acid supplements have proven their effectiveness in reducing homocysteine ​​levels and improving the function of endothelium.
  • Kobalamin (B12): Cobalamin is necessary for the functioning of methioninsyntase, enzyme involved in the metabolism of homocysteine. Cobalamine deficiency can lead to hypergomocysteinemia, anemia and neurological problems.

Clinical data on group B vitamins and heart health

Numerous observatory studies and RCTs appreciated the effect of B vitamins on the health of the heart. Although some studies have shown promising results, general data remains ambiguous.

Several meta -analyzes of RCT showed that the additives of B vitamins significantly reduce the level of homocysteine. However, the influence on cardiovascular outcomes turned out to be less clear. Some studies did not show considerable benefit, while others showed a potential reduction in the risk of stroke, especially in people with the previously existing SVDs.

In one large RCT, Vitamin International Stroke Prevention (Visp), the effect of high doses of folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 on the risk of a stroke with people with a non -kardiembolic stroke was evaluated. The study did not show a significant reduction in the risk of stroke in the Vitamins reception group compared to the placebo group.

In another RCT, Heart Outcomes Prevention Evalving (Hope) -2, the effects of folic acid and vitamin B12 on cardiovascular outcomes in people with a high risk of SFS were evaluated. The study did not show a significant reduction in the risk of serious cardiovascular events, including a heart attack, a stroke or cardiovascular death.

On the contrary, the meta -analysis published in The Lancet showed that folic acid supplements reduce the risk of stroke by 18% in people with SVA. The meta -analysis included data from more than 20 RCTs covering more than 20,000 participants.

The ambiguous results of RCTs can be associated with several factors, including the heterogeneity of the studied populations, the differences in the doses and duration of the additives of group B vitamins, as well as the use of various end points of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, it is possible that the advantages of reducing homocysteine ​​levels using group B vitamins can be more pronounced in people with specific genetic predispositions or in those who have a deficiency of several vitamins of group B.

Practical considerations

Based on the available data, it is necessary to take care of the use of B vitamins for the health of the heart.

  • Assessment of nutrient deficiency: Before taking the additives of B vitamins, it is important to evaluate the status of human nutrients using blood tests. This can help determine whether there is a deficiency of certain vitamins of group B, which can be eliminated using additives.
  • Dietary sources: The best way to get group B vitamins is a balanced diet that includes various products rich in group B vitamins. Good sources of group B vitamins include whole grains, lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds, dark green leafy vegetables and fruits.
  • Supplements: Addresses of group B vitamins can be useful for people with a shortage of nutrients or for those who are at high risk of deficiency, for example, for older people, vegans and people with certain diseases. However, it is important to talk with your doctor before starting to take any additives, since high doses of some vitamins of group B can be harmful.
  • Individualization: The approach to the use of group B vitamins for heart health should be individualized taking into account specific needs and human risk factors. For example, people with hyperhomocysteinemia can be useful for taking folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. People with dyslipidemia can be useful to take niacin, but it should be used under the supervision of a doctor due to potential side effects.
  • Life: It is important to remember that group B vitamins are only one of the aspects of the heart of the heart. Other important lifestyle factors include a healthy diet, regular physical exercises, rejection of smoking, stress management and sufficient sleep.

Current research and future areas

Studies continue to further study the role of group B vitamins in the health of the heart. Future research should be aimed at:

  • Identification of specific populations, which can be most useful for additives of group B vitamins: This may include people with certain genetic predispositions, those who have a deficiency of several vitamins of group B, or those who have certain diseases.
  • Studying optimal doses and duration of B vitamins B: Additional studies are needed to determine the most effective dose and duration of group B vitamins for various health care purposes.
  • The study of the mechanisms by which vitamins of group B affect the health of the heart: Further understanding of the mechanisms through which B vitamins affect the health of the heart, can help develop more focused and effective strategies for prevention and treatment.
  • Assessment of the influence of group B vitamins in combination with other interventions: Additional studies are needed to assess the influence of group B vitamins in combination with other interventions, such as changes in lifestyle and medicine.
  • Using personalized approaches: An individual approach to group B vitamins, based on the human genetic profile, the status of nutrients and risk factors, can optimize the benefits and minimize potential harm.

In conclusion, group B vitamins play an important role in the health of the heart through various mechanisms, including homocysteine ​​metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial function, lipid metabolism, blood pressure and platelet function. Although some studies have shown promising results, general data on the effect of additives of group B vitamins on cardiovascular outcomes remain ambiguous. A balanced approach to the use of group B vitamins is needed for the health of the heart, which takes into account the individual needs of a person and risk factors. A balanced diet, which includes various products rich in group B vitamins, is the best way to get these necessary nutrients. Addresses of group B vitamins can be useful for people with a shortage of nutrients or for those who are at high risk of deficiency, but it is important to talk with their doctor before starting to take any additives. Studies continue to further study the role of group B vitamins in the health of the heart and the development of more purposeful and effective strategies for prevention and treatment.

Homocysteine ​​metabolism: in -depth analysis

Getting into the metabolism of homocysteine, it becomes obvious that this is a complex process that is influenced by several factors in addition to group B vitamins. Genetic polymorphisms in enzymes involved in homocysteine ​​metabolism can affect the level of homocysteine. For example, the C677T polymorphism in the methyndolentetrahydrofolateredocutase (MTHFR) Gener, which encodes an enzyme that plays a decisive role in the metabolism of folates, is associated with an increased level of homocystein, especially with low consumption of folates.

In addition, the role of betaine (trimethyllycin) in the metabolism of homocysteine ​​is often overlooked. Betain is a nutrient contained in products such as beets, spinach and wheat bran. It acts as a donor of methyl groups in the transformation of homocysteine ​​into methionine using the Betain-Homocysthysthyltransferase (BHMT) enzyme. Sufficient betaine consumption can help reduce homocysteine ​​levels, especially in people with genetic polymorphisms who disrupt homocysteine ​​metabolism.

In addition, the interaction between group B vitamins and other nutrients can affect the metabolism of homocysteine. For example, zinc is necessary for the optimal activity of several enzymes involved in the metabolism of B vitamins B. Zinc deficiency can disrupt the metabolism of group B vitamins and indirectly affect the level of homocysteine.

Moreover, the effect of some drugs on homocysteine ​​metabolism should be taken into account. For example, methotrexate, often used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases, may prevent folates metabolism and lead to an increased level of homocysteine. People taking methotrexate may need additional folic acid to mitigate this effect.

Finally, age plays a role in the metabolism of homocysteine. With age, the level of homocysteine, as a rule, increases, which may be associated with a decrease in renal function, a decrease in nutrient consumption and the increased prevalence of genetic polymorphisms affecting the metabolism of homocysteine.

Oxidative stress, inflammation and vitamins of group B: Complex network

The relationship between oxidative stress, inflammation and vitamins of group B is complex and multifaceted. Oxidative stress and inflammation are two closely interconnected processes that contribute to the development of SSZ. B vitamins, especially riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3) and Pyridoxine (B6), have antioxidant properties and can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

Riboflavin is a component of the coo-eninduinucleotide coenzymes (FAD) and Flavmononucleotide (FMN), which participate in many redox reactions in the body. These coofers help neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative damage. In addition, riboflavin plays a role in the regeneration of glutation, powerful endogenous antioxidant.

Niacin acts as a predecessor of nicotinindinindinucleotide (above+) and nicotinindinindininucleotide phosphate (NDF+), which are important coofers in various metabolic pathways, including energy metabolism and antioxidant protection. Above+ and NADF+ help reduce oxidative stress by catching free radicals and supporting the functioning of antioxidant enzymes. Niacin also has anti -inflammatory properties and can help reduce the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines.

Pyridoxine is involved in the metabolism of amino acids and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. It also has antioxidant properties and can help protect from oxidative stress. Pyridoxine helps to reduce the production of the final glycing products (Age), which are harmful compounds formed when sugar reacts with proteins or fats. Age contribute to oxidative stress, inflammation and development of SVD.

In addition, B vitamins play a role in the regulation of inflammatory pathways. For example, folic acid can help reduce homocysteine ​​production, which is a pro -inflammatory molecule. Vitamin B12 can help suppress the activation of pro -inflammatory immune cells.

However, it is important to note that the influence of group B vitamins on oxidative stress and inflammation can depend on the dose. High doses of some vitamins of group B can have a proxidant effect, which can lead to an increase in oxidative stress. Therefore, it is important not to exceed the recommended daily dose of vitamins of group B.

Endothelial function: the role of group B vitamins in vascular health

The endothelial function is crucial for the health of the cardiovascular system. Endothelium is a layer of cells lining the inner surface of blood vessels. He plays a decisive role in the regulation of vascular tone, blood coagulation and inflammation. The dysfunction of the endothelium is an early sign of atherosclerosis and is associated with the increased risk of SVD.

Group B vitamins, especially folic acid and vitamin B12, improve the endothelium function by increasing the production of nitrogen oxide (NO), a powerful vasodilating agent. No helps to relax blood vessels, improve blood flow and prevent blood clots.

Folic acid acts as a coherent in the synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), which is necessary for the activity of the enzyme endothelial No-syntase (ENOS). ENOS catalyzes the production of NO from L-Arginine. Folic acid supplements increase NO production and improve the endothelium function.

Vitamin B12 can also improve the function of the endothelium by reducing homocysteine ​​levels. Increased homocysteine ​​levels damage endothelial cells and disrupt the production of NO. Vitamin B12 additives help reduce homocysteine ​​levels and improve endothelium function.

In addition, group B vitamins can protect endothelial cells from oxidative damage. Oxidative stress disrupts the function of the endothelium due to the inactivation of NO and an increase in the production of pro -inflammatory molecules. B vitamins, especially riboflavin, niacin and pyridoxine, have antioxidant properties and can help protect endothelial cells from oxidative damage.

In addition, group B vitamins can improve the function of the endothelium by reducing inflammation. Inflammation contributes to the dysfunction of the endothelium by increasing the production of pro -inflammatory cytokines and the activation of immune cells. B vitamins can help reduce inflammation and improve the function of the endothelium.

Lipid metabolism: the influence of niacin and other vitamins of group B

Lipid metabolism is a complex process that includes splitting, digestion, transport and use of fats in the body. The abnormal level of blood lipids, known as dyslipidemia, is the main risk factor in the SVD. Niacin (B3) has a deep effect on lipid metabolism and was used as a medicine for the treatment of dyslipidemia for decades.

Niacin reduces the level of low density lipoproteins (LDL) or “poor” cholesterol and increases the level of high density lipoproteins (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. Niacin also reduces the level of triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood.

Niacin reduces the level of LDL by inhibiting the production of very low density (LOPP) in the liver. LOPP is the predecessors of LDL. Niacin also increases LDL clearance from the blood.

Niacin increases the level of HDL by increasing the production of Aopoprotein AI (APOA-I), the main protein in HDL. Niacin also inhibits the breakdown of HDL.

Niacin reduces the level of triglycerides by inhibiting the production of LOPPs in the liver. Niacin also increases the splitting of triglycerides in the blood.

Although niacin has a deep effect on lipid metabolism, its use is limited by side effects, such as redness of the face and hepatotoxicity. Redness of the face is a common side effect of niacin caused by the release of prostaglandins. Hepatotoxicity is a rare, but serious side effect of niacin, which can lead to liver damage.

Other B vitamins can also affect lipid metabolism, although to a lesser extent than Niacin. For example, pantothenic acid (B5) is necessary for the synthesis of coherent A (COA), which plays a decisive role in the metabolism of fatty acids. A deficiency of pantothenic acid can contribute to the development of dyslipidemia.

In addition, group B vitamins can affect lipid metabolism indirectly, by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to the development of dyslipidemia. B vitamins, especially riboflavin, niacin and pyridoxine, have antioxidant properties and can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

Arterial pressure and vitamins of group B: Potential communication

Arterial pressure is an important indicator of the health of the cardiovascular system. High blood pressure, known as hypertension, is the main risk factor in the SSZ. Some studies have shown that the additives of group B vitamins, especially folic acid, can help reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension.

The mechanism underlying this effect may include an improvement in endothelium function and a decrease in homocysteine ​​levels. As previously discussed, folic acid improves endothelium function by increasing the production of NO, powerful vasodilator. Folic acid also reduces the level of homocysteine, which damages endothelial cells and disrupts the production of NO.

In addition, group B vitamins can affect blood pressure by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to increasing blood pressure. B vitamins, especially riboflavin, niacin and pyridoxine, have antioxidant properties and can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

However, it is important to note that evidence about the influence of B vitamins of group B on blood pressure is ambiguous. Some studies have shown that the additives of group B vitamins significantly reduce blood pressure, while other studies have not shown any effect.

In addition, additional studies are needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of group B vitamins for controlling blood pressure.

Platelet function and B vitamins B: Prevention of thrombotic events

Platelets are blood cells that play a decisive role in blood coagulation. Excessive activation of platelets can lead to blood clots, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Some studies show that vitamin B6 can suppress platelet aggregation and improve platelet function, which potentially reduces the risk of thrombotic events.

Vitamin B6 is involved in the metabolism of serotonin, neurotransmitter, which plays a role in the activation of platelets. Vitamin B6 can also affect the synthesis of thromboxan A2, a powerful vasoconstrictor and platelet aggregator.

In addition, group B vitamins can affect the function of platelets indirectly, by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to the activation of platelets and the formation of blood clots. B vitamins, especially riboflavin, niacin and pyridoxine, have antioxidant properties and can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

However, it is important to note that evidence about the influence of group B vitamins on the function of platelets is limited. Additional studies are needed to confirm these results and determine the role of group B vitamins in the prevention of thrombotic events.

Dietary sources of B vitamins B: a balanced diet for heart health

The best way to get group B vitamins is a balanced diet that includes various products rich in group B vitamins. Good sources of group B vitamins include:

  • TIAMIN (B1): Pork, whole grain products, enriched products, legumes, nuts and seeds.
  • Riboflavin (b2): Dairy products, eggs, lean meat, poultry, fish, green leafy vegetables and enriched products.
  • Niacin (B3): Bird, fish, lean meat, nuts, seeds and enriched products.
  • Pantotenic acid (B5): Avocado, broccoli, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, eggs and lean meat.
  • Pyridoxin (B6): Bird, fish, pork, bananas, avocados, spinach and enriched products.
  • Biotin (B7): Eggs, nuts, seeds, sweet potatoes and liver.
  • Folic acid (B9): Dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, avocados, broccoli and enriched products.
  • Kobalamin (B12): Meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products. Vegans need to receive vitamin B12 from enriched products or additives.

The use of a balanced diet rich in these products can help ensure adequate consumption of group B vitamins and support the health of the heart.

B vitamins adds: when are they necessary?

B vitamins adds can be useful for people with a deficiency of nutrients or for those who are at high risk of deficiency, for example:

  • Elderly people: Elderly people are more likely to have a deficiency of group B vitamins due to reducing the consumption of nutrients, violations of absorption and increased use of drugs.
  • Vigan: Vegans need to receive vitamin B12 from enriched products or additives, since it is mainly contained in animal products.
  • People with certain diseases: Some diseases, such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, may violate the absorption of B vitamins B.
  • People taking certain drugs: Some drugs, such as methotrexate, may impede the metabolism of B vitamins B.

However, it is important to talk with your doctor before starting to take any additives, since high doses of some vitamins of group B can be harmful.

Conclusion

B vitamins play a complex and multifaceted role in maintaining the health of the heart. From their influence on the metabolism of homocysteine ​​to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, B vitamins contribute to the optimal functioning of the cardiovascular system. Although some studies have shown promising results, the general data on the effect of additives of group B vitamins on cardiovascular outcomes remain ambiguous, which emphasizes the need for a personalized approach to the use of group B vitamins, based on individual needs and risk factors.

A balanced diet, rich in various products, rich in group B vitamins, should become the basis of the strategy for supporting the health of the heart. B vitamins of group B can be useful in certain situations, such as nutrient deficiency or increased risk of deficiency, but they should be used under the guidance of a doctor. Continuing studies continue to unravel complex mechanisms through which group B vitamins affect the health of the heart, and promise to develop more purposeful and effective strategies for the prevention and treatment of SVD. Emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet, targeted additives and consultations with health specialists, we can use the potential advantages of group B vitamins to strengthen heart health and reduce burden of cardiovascular diseases.

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