Can Homocystein help with Sport?

Homocysteine is not an ergogenic aid; elevated levels are generally harmful rather than helpful for sport performance. High homocysteine is a known cardiovascular risk factor and can impair endothelial function, potentially reducing endurance and recovery. Some athletes monitor homocysteine to assess methylation status and B-vitamin adequacy (folate, B12, B6), which help keep homocysteine low. However, there is no evidence that raising homocysteine improves performance. The evidence is mechanistic/practice-based: maintaining a healthy homocysteine level (around 5–8 µmol/L) supports overall metabolic health, but actively increasing it is counterproductive. DNA tests for MTHFR variants (e.g., rs1801133) can indicate genetic predisposition to higher homocysteine, but blood testing is needed for actual levels. Bottom line: homocysteine is a marker, not a supplement. Lowering it may benefit long-term health and recovery, but it won't directly boost athletic output.