Homocysteine is a by-product of the breakdown of the essential amino acid, methionine. Homocysteine is an intermediate step in the chemical conversion of methionine to cysteine. However, too much homocysteine in the body is very dangerous. It is a major threat to our circulatory system. Elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood increase the risk of atherosclerosis, a clogging of the arteries responsible for heart attacks and strokes. Homocysteine causes direct damage to the lining of blood vessels, weakening them and opening them to the accumulation of plaque. Homocysteine may be a thrombogenic agent that triggers blood clots to form. Homocysteine may promote the increased presence and oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol. The white blood cells (macrophages) engulf the increased LDL (Bad) cholesterol and become deposited as plaque on the vessel walls. Suitable for vegetarians.