Why are MMA and homocysteine elevated in B12?
Vitamin B12 deficiency, therefore, can lead to increased levels of serum methylmalonic acid. In the second reaction, homocysteine is converted to methionine by using vitamin B12 and folic acid as cofactors. In this reaction, a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid may lead to increased homocysteine levels.
What does it mean if your homocysteine level is high?
Homocysteine is an amino acid. Vitamins B12, B6 and folate break down homocysteine to create other chemicals your body needs. High homocysteine levels may mean you have a vitamin deficiency. Without treatment, elevated homocysteine increases your risks for dementia, heart disease and stroke.
What is considered a high MMA level?
A high level of MMA can mean that you have a low level of B-12. Vitamin B-12 deficiency is the most common cause of MMA production. Foods that can increase B-12 levels include red meats, shellfish, fish, dairy, and cereals fortified with the vitamin.
What do low methylmalonic acid levels indicate?
A low methylmalonic acid means that you have normal B12 levels , or you are taking Vitamin B12. It’s meaningless and to continue taking MMA tests when you are on B12, and is a waste of time and money.
Is blood homocysteine elevated in migraine?
A 2012 study found that migraine patients with the MTHFR gene mutation were significantly more likely to have elevated levels of a certain amino acid, homocysteine, in their blood. These elevated levels could even be an additional risk factor for Migraine with aura.
What are your homocysteine levels?
A normal level of homocysteine in the blood is less than 15 micromoles per liter (mcmol/L) of blood. Higher levels of homocysteine are split into three main categories: Moderate: 15-30 mcmol/L. Intermediate: 30-100 mcmol/L.
What is methylmalonic acid lab?
The methylmalonic acid test, also known as a methylmalonic acid blood test, methylmalonate lab test and an MMA level test, measures the methylmalonic acid blood level. Methylmalonic acid is an acid that has a role in an energy production process in the body known as the Krebs cycle .