Folic acid supplements do not protect from heart disease

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

A new analysis of the evidence shows that folic acid supplements do not reduce the risk of heart disease.
We already know that elevated levels of the amino acid homocysteine are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Folate, which is found in citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables, can reduce homocysteine levels. From this, it's just a short step to the theory that high folate intake - or supplementation with folic acid - might decrease the risk of heart disease. If this were so, it'd be a simple way of protecting people from heart problems.

There's some evidence that folate and folic acid are, indeed, protective. But some studies do not show a link. Researchers at Tulane University have carried out a new analysis of trials covering nearly 17,000 participants with pre-existing heart disease, which compare folic acid supplementation with placebo for a minimum of six months. The study shows that folic acid supplements make no difference, in these participants, to the risk of heart disease, stroke or overall mortality. For those at risk, it is better to concentrate on strategies proven to work when it comes to secondary prevention. These include smoking cessation, weight loss and treatment of high blood pressure and diabetes.

Source
Journal of the American Medical Association 13th December 2006 Volume 296 pages 2720-2726

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