The effect of fortified breakfast cereal on plasma homocyst(e)ine concentrations in healthy older men already consuming a folate fortified diet

Abstract

High plasma homocysteine (hcy) concentrations may be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Folic acid supplementation reduces plasma hcy, however no studies used fortified foods and nutrition education to promote a sustained diet change. The effects of nutrition education and fortified cereal consumption on plasma hcy were studied in 41 men ≥ 58 years old. Subjects randomized into the experimental group (n=21) received super-fortified ready-to-eat cereal (400 μg folic acid) for 8 weeks, and nutrition education based on the Social Cognitive Theory. Control group subjects (n=20) received general nutrition education only. Folate intake at baseline was similar to recommended levels (436±204 μg/day). Experimental subjects increased folic acid intake, and serum folate was significantly higher at follow up. Plasma hcy did not differ significantly over time between groups. Subjects with moderate hcy concentrations who are already eating fortified foods regularly may not benefit from consuming folate above recommended levels.