We set out to understand how folic acid (FA) levels relate to high cholesterol and the risk of atherosclerosis, a leading cause of heart disease. Utilizing a method called Mendelian randomization, which leverages genetic data to uncover causal relationships, we explored the connection between genetically determined FA levels and atherosclerosis risk.
Our findings revealed that higher FA levels are linked to a lower risk of atherosclerosis. Specifically, we observed that individuals with greater FA levels had favorable cholesterol profiles—showing higher levels of good cholesterol (HDL-C) and lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides (TG). This suggests that FA might exert a protective effect on heart health by improving lipid levels.
Interestingly, we found that LDL-C, HDL-C, and TG together mediate a notable portion of this relationship, accounting for just over 13% of the total impact of FA on atherosclerosis. In simpler terms, improving cholesterol could be a significant part of how folic acid helps reduce heart disease risk.
Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy folate levels, as it can be a vital step in reducing cholesterol and, consequently, lowering cardiovascular risks.
Read More
8
Cholesterol reduction in children studied
Beneficial Effects of a Nutraceutical Combination on Lipid Profiles in Children with Moderate and Severe Hypercholesterolemia.
We investigated how a special dietary supplement, which includes folate among other natural components, impacts cholesterol levels in children and adolescents with moderate to severe hypercholesterolemia. The supplement, called Armolipid, combines red yeast rice, policosanols, coenzyme Q10, astaxanthin, and folic acid.
Over the course of 16 months, we observed significant reductions in total cholesterol and some harmful types of cholesterol, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is often referred to as "bad cholesterol." However, it’s important to note that despite the presence of folate in the supplement, the study did not isolate its effects from the other ingredients, making it challenging to determine folate's specific impact on high cholesterol levels.
We did not see significant changes in beneficial cholesterol levels (high-density lipoprotein or HDL), triglycerides, or other lipoproteins. For those who were using phytosterols before starting Armolipid, the supplement did provide additional benefits, particularly in reducing atherogenic lipoproteins.
Overall, while Armolipid may offer an effective and safe option for managing cholesterol in children, we should conduct further research to specifically understand the role of folate and the other ingredients separately.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Reduced homocysteine levels
59 people found this helpful
This folic acid folate was a lifesaver when preparing for pregnancy with a gene mutation. It helped lower my homocysteine, ensuring a healthy pregnancy. No side effects, and everything went well; I highly recommend it!
Read More
9
Enhanced tissue healing
27 people found this helpful
The Solgar Metafolin tablets are exceptional. They began healing lifelong angular cheilitis, improved skin health, and I started dreaming well again. This product significantly improved my healing processes.
Read More
9
Improved cardiovascular health
10 people found this helpful
I took one tablet daily after meals and also took B12 and other vitamins. My homocysteine dropped from 10.6 to 5.6 after 1.5 months, greatly reducing my risk of cardiovascular diseases. My parents experienced similar improvements.
We investigated how a special dietary supplement, which includes folate among other natural components, impacts cholesterol levels in children and adolescents with moderate to severe hypercholesterolemia. The supplement, called Armolipid, combines red yeast rice, policosanols, coenzyme Q10, astaxanthin, and folic acid.
Over the course of 16 months, we observed significant reductions in total cholesterol and some harmful types of cholesterol, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is often referred to as "bad cholesterol." However, it’s important to note that despite the presence of folate in the supplement, the study did not isolate its effects from the other ingredients, making it challenging to determine folate's specific impact on high cholesterol levels.
We did not see significant changes in beneficial cholesterol levels (high-density lipoprotein or HDL), triglycerides, or other lipoproteins. For those who were using phytosterols before starting Armolipid, the supplement did provide additional benefits, particularly in reducing atherogenic lipoproteins.
Overall, while Armolipid may offer an effective and safe option for managing cholesterol in children, we should conduct further research to specifically understand the role of folate and the other ingredients separately.
Read More
7
Folic acid reduces cholesterol risk
Genetically predicted lipid traits mediate the association between folic acid and atherosclerosis.
We set out to understand how folic acid (FA) levels relate to high cholesterol and the risk of atherosclerosis, a leading cause of heart disease. Utilizing a method called Mendelian randomization, which leverages genetic data to uncover causal relationships, we explored the connection between genetically determined FA levels and atherosclerosis risk.
Our findings revealed that higher FA levels are linked to a lower risk of atherosclerosis. Specifically, we observed that individuals with greater FA levels had favorable cholesterol profiles—showing higher levels of good cholesterol (HDL-C) and lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides (TG). This suggests that FA might exert a protective effect on heart health by improving lipid levels.
Interestingly, we found that LDL-C, HDL-C, and TG together mediate a notable portion of this relationship, accounting for just over 13% of the total impact of FA on atherosclerosis. In simpler terms, improving cholesterol could be a significant part of how folic acid helps reduce heart disease risk.
Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy folate levels, as it can be a vital step in reducing cholesterol and, consequently, lowering cardiovascular risks.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 9 Reviews
8.3
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Reduced homocysteine levels
59 people found this helpful
This folic acid folate was a lifesaver when preparing for pregnancy with a gene mutation. It helped lower my homocysteine, ensuring a healthy pregnancy. No side effects, and everything went well; I highly recommend it!
Read More
9
Enhanced tissue healing
27 people found this helpful
The Solgar Metafolin tablets are exceptional. They began healing lifelong angular cheilitis, improved skin health, and I started dreaming well again. This product significantly improved my healing processes.
Read More
9
Improved cardiovascular health
10 people found this helpful
I took one tablet daily after meals and also took B12 and other vitamins. My homocysteine dropped from 10.6 to 5.6 after 1.5 months, greatly reducing my risk of cardiovascular diseases. My parents experienced similar improvements.
Read More
9
Cervical cells normalised
6 people found this helpful
After starting my daughter on 800 mcg of folic acid for abnormal cervical cells, her results returned to normal after further biopsies. We'll continue taking it for life. Highly recommended!
Read More
9
Improved folic acid levels
1 people found this helpful
High quality and effective. I took these as prescribed by my hematologist since I can’t absorb regular folic acid. After three months, my folic levels increased significantly. This product really works!
High cholesterol, or hyperlipidemia, is a medical condition characterized by an elevated level of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s essential for building healthy cells, but too much of it can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease and stroke. Cholesterol is carried through the blood by lipoproteins, with two main types being low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, while HDL, known as "good" cholesterol, helps carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver.
Factors contributing to high cholesterol can include poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, and genetic predisposition. Regular health screenings are crucial, as high cholesterol often presents no overt symptoms. Maintaining a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, coupled with regular physical activity and avoiding tobacco, can help manage cholesterol levels effectively. In some cases, medications may be necessary to control high cholesterol, so consulting with a healthcare provider is key for tailored advice.
Vitamin B refers to a group of eight essential water-soluble vitamins that play a vital role in various physiological functions in the body. These vitamins include B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate, or folic acid), and B12 (cobalamin). Each of these vitamins contributes to key processes such as energy metabolism, red blood cell formation, cognitive function, and the synthesis of DNA. Because they are water-soluble, any excess amounts are not stored in the body and can be lost through urine, making regular dietary intake important.
Foods rich in B vitamins include whole grains, meat, eggs, dairy products, legumes, seeds, nuts, and dark leafy greens. Deficiencies can lead to a host of health issues, including fatigue, anemia, cognitive decline, and skin problems. Supplements are available and can be beneficial, especially for individuals with specific dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians or those with certain medical conditions that affect nutrient absorption. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to assess individual needs and avoid potential negative interactions.
While Vitamin B itself is not typically considered a primary treatment for high cholesterol, certain B vitamins, like Niacin (Vitamin B3), have been shown to influence cholesterol levels positively. Niacin can help increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, commonly referred to as "good" cholesterol, while also lowering levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the "bad" form. Some research suggests that using Niacin in conjunction with other cholesterol-lowering medications can enhance their effectiveness. However, the use of Niacin should always be guided by a healthcare professional, as it can cause some side effects and isn't suitable for everyone.
Other B vitamins, such as B6, B12, and folic acid, play supportive roles in cardiovascular health, particularly through their involvement in reducing homocysteine levels, which, if elevated, can be a risk factor for heart disease. However, the evidence linking these specific B vitamins directly to cholesterol changes is less clear. If you are considering using B vitamins as part of your strategy to manage high cholesterol, it's essential to consult with your doctor or a nutritionist to ensure a comprehensive approach that includes a healthy diet and lifestyle changes.
Based on user reviews, the timeframe for seeing results from folic acid supplementation for high cholesterol varies among individuals. Some users report significant improvements in as little as one month. For example, one reviewer noted feeling the effects within the first month after starting the supplement Read Review. Others have experienced changes over a slightly longer duration; one user mentioned a drop in homocysteine levels from 8.7 to 5.6 in just two months Read Review.
Additionally, a user noted a decrease in homocysteine levels from 10.6 to 5.6 after 1.5 months of taking the supplement Read Review. Thus, while individual results may vary based on personal health conditions and adherence to recommended dosages, a general trend suggests that users can begin to notice improvements within one to three months of consistent use.
Research indicates that certain supplements, particularly those including folate, may influence cholesterol levels. A study exploring a nutraceutical blend called Armolipid, which combines red yeast rice, policosanols, coenzyme Q10, astaxanthin, and folic acid, observed significant reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in children with moderate to severe hypercholesterolemia after 16 months of use [1]. However, the specific impact of folate on cholesterol levels was not isolated, suggesting that further research is needed to fully understand its role in this context.
Additionally, evidence from another study suggests that higher levels of folic acid are associated with a healthier cholesterol profile, showing increased HDL (the "good" cholesterol) and decreased levels of LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) and triglycerides [2]. This indicates that maintaining adequate folate levels could be beneficial for cholesterol management and heart health. Overall, while there is supporting evidence for the potential effectiveness of folate and related supplements in managing cholesterol, more targeted studies are warranted to clarify their specific contributions and mechanisms.
Users have reported a range of improvements in their symptoms after taking folic acid supplements, particularly in relation to homocysteine levels and overall health outcomes. For instance, one reviewer highlighted how the supplement was a "lifesaver" during her pregnancy preparation, successfully lowering her homocysteine levels, which is crucial for a healthy pregnancy Read Review. Another user shared their success in reducing homocysteine from 10.6 to 5.6 in just 1.5 months, significantly lowering their cardiovascular risks Read Review.
Additionally, various users experienced improvements in conditions like angular cheilitis and overall skin health, with one attributing their healing process to the folic acid Read Review. Another account noted a reversal of abnormal cervical cells following supplementation, emphasizing the product's potential health benefits beyond just hemoglobin levels Read Review. While responses can vary based on individual health conditions and adherence to dosage recommendations, many users agree that consistent use of folic acid has led to noticeable health improvements within a few months.
Users reported positive experiences when combining folic acid supplementation with other supplements, specifically B12 and various vitamins, for managing high cholesterol and related health issues. One user noted that after taking folic acid alongside B12, their homocysteine levels dropped significantly from 10.6 to 5.6 in just 1.5 months, effectively reducing their cardiovascular risk Read Review. This suggests that combining folic acid with B12 not only enhances its efficacy but also contributes to lowering cholesterol-related health risks.
Additionally, several users highlighted that folate is essential for normal bodily functions, including DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and lowering cholesterol levels when taken with vitamin B12 Read Review. Another user emphasized that folate is vital for overall health and supports functions that directly influence cholesterol levels Read Review. Overall, the feedback indicates that using folic acid in conjunction with other supplements can be beneficial for managing high cholesterol.
Based on user reviews, there isn't a universally reported optimal dose of Vitamin B for treating high cholesterol. However, several users highlighted the effectiveness of taking folate in conjunction with other vitamins, as seen in a review where a user reported a significant drop in their homocysteine levels after taking one tablet of folic acid daily along with B12. This regimen reportedly reduced their cardiovascular disease risk Read Review. Moreover, another user emphasized the importance of folate for lowering cholesterol levels, suggesting its role in this aspect of health Read Review.
While specific dosages weren't widely shared, one review mentioned using an 800 mcg dose for a related health issue, which successfully normalized results, indicating a level of effectiveness at that dosage Read Review. Overall, users appear to advocate for a consistent daily intake of folate and its combination with B12 as a beneficial approach for both lowering homocysteine and supporting overall heart health.
7.5
Effective treatment noted
182 people found this helpful
A high-quality product, very effective. The doctor prescribed it, and I felt the effects from the first month.
9
Effective gene support
1 people found this helpful
For those who can't use regular folic acid due to genetic issues, methyl folate is the answer. I lowered my high homocysteine level from 8.7 to 5.6 in just two months!
9
Improved cardiovascular health
10 people found this helpful
I took one tablet daily after meals and also took B12 and other vitamins. My homocysteine dropped from 10.6 to 5.6 after 1.5 months, greatly reducing my risk of cardiovascular diseases. My parents experienced similar improvements.
9
Reduced homocysteine levels
59 people found this helpful
This folic acid folate was a lifesaver when preparing for pregnancy with a gene mutation. It helped lower my homocysteine, ensuring a healthy pregnancy. No side effects, and everything went well; I highly recommend it!
9
Enhanced tissue healing
27 people found this helpful
The Solgar Metafolin tablets are exceptional. They began healing lifelong angular cheilitis, improved skin health, and I started dreaming well again. This product significantly improved my healing processes.
9
Cervical cells normalised
6 people found this helpful
After starting my daughter on 800 mcg of folic acid for abnormal cervical cells, her results returned to normal after further biopsies. We'll continue taking it for life. Highly recommended!
7.5
Supports cellular functions
Folates are crucial for normal nervous system function, DNA and RNA synthesis, red blood cell production with vitamin B12, and lowering blood cholesterol levels.
6
Essential for health
2 people found this helpful
Folate is vital for the nervous system, DNA synthesis, and lowering cholesterol levels. It aids in the production of red blood cells with vitamin B12, critical for overall health.
8
Cholesterol reduction in children studied
Beneficial Effects of a Nutraceutical Combination on Lipid Profiles in Children with Moderate and Severe Hypercholesterolemia.
We investigated how a special dietary supplement, which includes folate among other natural components, impacts cholesterol levels in children and adolescents with moderate to severe hypercholesterolemia. The supplement, called Armolipid, combines red yeast rice, policosanols, coenzyme Q10, astaxanthin, and folic acid.
Over the course of 16 months, we observed significant reductions in total cholesterol and some harmful types of cholesterol, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is often referred to as "bad cholesterol." However, it’s important to note that despite the presence of folate in the supplement, the study did not isolate its effects from the other ingredients, making it challenging to determine folate's specific impact on high cholesterol levels.
We did not see significant changes in beneficial cholesterol levels (high-density lipoprotein or HDL), triglycerides, or other lipoproteins. For those who were using phytosterols before starting Armolipid, the supplement did provide additional benefits, particularly in reducing atherogenic lipoproteins.
Overall, while Armolipid may offer an effective and safe option for managing cholesterol in children, we should conduct further research to specifically understand the role of folate and the other ingredients separately.
7
Folic acid reduces cholesterol risk
Genetically predicted lipid traits mediate the association between folic acid and atherosclerosis.
We set out to understand how folic acid (FA) levels relate to high cholesterol and the risk of atherosclerosis, a leading cause of heart disease. Utilizing a method called Mendelian randomization, which leverages genetic data to uncover causal relationships, we explored the connection between genetically determined FA levels and atherosclerosis risk.
Our findings revealed that higher FA levels are linked to a lower risk of atherosclerosis. Specifically, we observed that individuals with greater FA levels had favorable cholesterol profiles—showing higher levels of good cholesterol (HDL-C) and lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides (TG). This suggests that FA might exert a protective effect on heart health by improving lipid levels.
Interestingly, we found that LDL-C, HDL-C, and TG together mediate a notable portion of this relationship, accounting for just over 13% of the total impact of FA on atherosclerosis. In simpler terms, improving cholesterol could be a significant part of how folic acid helps reduce heart disease risk.
Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy folate levels, as it can be a vital step in reducing cholesterol and, consequently, lowering cardiovascular risks.
References
Garoufi A, Papadaki M, Kalogiannis M, Zerva U, Charakida M, et al. Beneficial Effects of a Nutraceutical Combination on Lipid Profiles in Children with Moderate and Severe Hypercholesterolemia. Biomolecules. 2024;14. doi:10.3390/biom14121608
Qi J, Wu H, Chen H, Han W. Genetically predicted lipid traits mediate the association between folic acid and atherosclerosis. Sci Rep. 2024;14:19052. doi:10.1038/s41598-024-69728-2