Homocysteine Blood Test

The Homocysteine Blood Test measures the level of homocysteine—an amino-acid intermediate in the one-carbon/methylation pathway—in your blood. Because B-vitamins (folate/B9, B12, and B6) help recycle homocysteine, elevations can suggest nutrient insufficiency and have been linked with higher cardiovascular risk. As part of the PlexusDx Methylation Panel Blood Test, homocysteine is paired with Folate (B9) and Vitamin B12 for a clear view of methylation status and related health insights.

Why Measure Homocysteine?

Methylation health: Homocysteine sits at the crossroads of methylation and is kept low by folate, B12, and B6.
Nutrient status: Elevated levels often reflect insufficiency of these B-vitamins.
Cardiovascular context: Higher homocysteine has been associated with increased risk of coronary disease and stroke, though routine screening for risk alone isn’t universally recommended.

What’s Included in the PlexusDx Methylation Panel

Homocysteine – methylation and B-vitamin–responsive marker.
Folate (Vitamin B9) – essential for DNA synthesis and remethylation of homocysteine.
Vitamin B12 – critical cofactor for homocysteine → methionine conversion.

How the PlexusDx Test Works

At-home collection: Quick finger-prick sample with prepaid return shipping.
Fast turnaround: Digital results typically within ~2 business days after the lab receives your sample.
Order direct: No physician order required; HSA/FSA eligible.

Preparation & Timing

Many labs advise fasting 8–12 hours before a homocysteine draw and reviewing medications/supplements (especially B-vitamins) with your provider. Protein-rich meals can transiently raise post-meal (post-prandial) homocysteine, so fasting helps standardize results. Always follow the kit instructions provided with your PlexusDx panel.

Understanding Results (High-Level)

Reference ranges vary by laboratory; your report will include the specific range used. In general, higher homocysteine can reflect B-vitamin insufficiency, lifestyle and metabolic factors (e.g., smoking, alcohol, thyroid/kidney issues), and is associated with higher cardiovascular risk in population studies. Discuss your results and next steps with your clinician.

What Can Influence Homocysteine?

B-vitamin status: Folate (B9), B12, and B6 help convert homocysteine to useful compounds.
Riboflavin (B2) & genetics: In people with the common MTHFR 677TT genotype, riboflavin can markedly lower homocysteine in trials.
Choline & betaine intake: These methyl donors are associated with lower homocysteine and can blunt rises after methionine loads.
Dietary pattern: Large protein loads may raise post-prandial (but not fasting) levels.

Ways to Support Healthy Levels

Nutrition: Emphasize folate-rich foods (leafy greens, legumes), B12 sources (fish, eggs, dairy or fortified foods), B6 sources (poultry, potatoes, bananas), and foods with choline/betaine (eggs, seafood, legumes, beets).
Lifestyle: Don’t smoke, moderate alcohol, be physically active, and maintain a healthy weight.
Targeted supplementation: Your clinician may consider folate (5-MTHF), B12, B6, riboflavin, or betaine—based on your history, diet, medications, and genetics.
Re-testing: After changes (diet, supplements, or medications), re-check per your clinician’s plan.

FAQs

Can I order this with PlexusDx without seeing a doctor?
Yes. The Methylation Panel (Homocysteine, Folate, B12) can be ordered directly and is HSA/FSA eligible.

How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available within ~2 business days after your sample arrives at the lab.

Please note: Although higher homocysteine is associated with cardiovascular risk, large studies have shown that lowering homocysteine does not always reduce events; your provider will interpret results in the full context of your health.