Research Progress on the Effect of Exercise on Homocysteine

The effect of exercise on homocysteine (Hcy) levels is multifaceted and varies significantly across different populations. This review investigates how various exercise modalities-moderate to vigorous physical activity, acute intense exercise, aerobic exercise, and resistance training-affect Hcy concentrations, alongside the influence of demographic and health-related factors. Generally, moderate to vigorous physical activity is associated with lower Hcy levels, potentially reducing cardiovascular risk. In contrast, acute high-intensity exercises may temporarily increase Hcy levels due to immediate metabolic responses and oxidative stress. The effects of exercise on Hcy levels are influenced by age, sex, baseline health status, nutritional intake, fitness level, exercise type, and genetic factors. Aerobic exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular and neuroprotective outcomes but may not significantly affect Hcy levels in the long term. Conversely, resistance training demonstrates varied effects, with some studies indicating significant reductions in Hcy levels, particularly in specific populations like overweight older adults, while others show negligible changes. Overall, while evidence supports the beneficial role of regular physical activity in modulating Hcy levels, the relationship is complex and affected by multiple factors. Further research is needed to clarify the underlying mechanisms and optimize exercise recommendations for different populations to control Hcy levels and associated health risks effectively.