What is the effect of increasing folic acid intakes on plasma homocysteine levels?
Studies have shown that increasing folic acid intakes can reduce plasma homocysteine levels. For example, a 1995 study published in JAMA found that increasing folic acid intakes can reduce the risk of vascular disease by decreasing homocysteine levels in the plasma. The European Concerted Action Project published in 1997 also found that increasing folic acid intakes can reduce homocysteine levels in the plasma. Additionally, the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, conducted from 1988-1994, found that increasing folic acid intake can reduce the likelihood of nonfatal stroke. Finally, a study published in Stroke in 2008 found that increasing folic acid intake can reduce the prevalence of silent cerebral infarcts. Therefore, increasing folic acid intakes can have a positive effect on plasma homocysteine levels. 