Homocysteine

HOMOCYSTEINE

 A key metabolic marker for methylation, inflammation, and neurological health.

Homocysteine is a sulphur-containing amino acid produced during the metabolism of methionine, an essential amino acid found in dietary protein. Under healthy conditions, it is recycled via two primary routes: remethylation (back to methionine) and transsulfuration (into glutathione-building compounds).

The remethylation process is dependent on the enzyme MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase), which converts folate into its active form, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). This bioavailable folate donates a methyl group to homocysteine, converting it back into methionine with the help of vitamin B12. If this pathway is impaired—particularly in individuals with common MTHFR polymorphisms such as C677T—homocysteine levels may rise, contributing to systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and compromised mental and cardiovascular health.

Elevated homocysteine (hyperhomocysteinaemia) is associated with impaired neurotransmitter function, reduced methylation capacity, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, cognitive decline, and infertility.

Clinical relevance in BALM

Within the BALM Protocol, regulating homocysteine is a key therapeutic target—particularly in those with MTHFR SNPs and related neurodivergent traits. Fermented, fibre-rich bread made using the BALM method supports this regulation on multiple levels:

• Botanical Blends: Our botanical flours are formulated to include naturally methylated and folate-rich ingredients such as nettle, seaweed, legumes, and wild greens—all shown to support homocysteine clearance.
• Enhanced Bioavailability through Fermentation: Long, slow fermentation enhances the release of B vitamins, including folate, and reduces phytates that otherwise inhibit mineral and micronutrient absorption.
• Personalisation through Nutrigenetics: The protocol integrates SNP analysis (e.g. MTHFR, COMT, UGT1A1), helping tailor bread to support methylation and detoxification pathways.
• Support for Neurodiversity: Elevated homocysteine has been observed in individuals with neurodivergent conditions, including ADHD and autism. Balancing homocysteine may help restore neurotransmitter equilibrium and improve mood, sleep, and cognitive function.

Proven Bread is specifically designed to support these pathways—by delivering bioavailable nutrients, fermented diversity, and gentle, sustained metabolic support with every slice.

Related terms

methylation,
MTHFR,
folate,
B vitamins,
betaine,
choline,
fermentation,
neurotransmitters,
Proven Bread,
neurodiversity