Hyperhomocysteinemia in winter elite athletes: a longitudinal study

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Disease Research
• Sports Medicine
• Nutritional Biochemistry

Background:

• Hyperhomocysteinemia is a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
• Elite athletes may experience unique physiological stresses impacting health markers.
• Understanding homocysteine levels in athletes is crucial for preventing cardiovascular morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To longitudinally assess plasma homocysteine levels in elite athletes across different training phases.
• To investigate the relationship between homocysteine levels, muscular workload, and vitamin status in athletes.
• To compare homocysteine levels in athletes versus a control group.

Main Methods:

• Longitudinal study involving 103 elite athletes (59 males, 44 females) and 84 controls.
• Blood sampling and medical examinations conducted during recovery, training, and competition periods.
• Analysis of plasma homocysteine, folate, and creatine-kinase levels.

Main Results:

• 32% of elite athletes exhibited elevated homocysteine levels (>15 µmol/l), compared to 7.1% in controls.
• Male athletes had significantly higher plasma homocysteine levels and a greater prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia than female athletes.
• A weak negative correlation was found between homocysteine and folate levels; no correlation with creatine-kinase.

Conclusions:

• Elite athletes, especially in winter sports, have an excess prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia.
• Elevated homocysteine in athletes is associated with folate status, not muscular workload.
• Further research into the mechanisms underlying hyperhomocysteinemia in athletes is essential to mitigate cardiovascular risks.