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Dr. Lee: I have been encouraging some of my patients to take a multivitamin that contains at least 400 micrograms of folic acid along with vitamins B6 and B12. I also encourage them to take folic acid fortified cereal, is that the right thing to do? Dr.
Gregory Thomas: We have not proven whether lowering homocysteine levels with these vitamins will actually decrease the chance of a heart attack. I personally think lowering homocysteine will ultimately be proven to be beneficial. Just remember, 20 years ago we were not even sure whether lowering cholesterol would be beneficial. Many of us at that time believed that lowering cholesterol would be important, now numerous studies have conclusively shown that lowering cholesterol prevent heart attacks. Therefore, I think it is a good idea to recommend a multivitamin that contains folic acid and other B vitamins as well as eating folic acid fortified cereals. The published answers represent the opinions and perspectives of the doctors and pharmacists of MedicineNet.com and are for educational purposes only. They should not be used to replace or substitute for timely consultation with your doctor. Accuracy of information cannot be guaranteed. Please remember, information can be subject to interpretation and can become obsolete. For more information, please see Cholesterol Center. Back to
Doctors' Dialogue Index
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