Did you know that hyper homocysteine levels are a major problem in the Indian population. Many of us are even vegetarians and may suffer from B 12 deficiency.

This is an independent risk factor for the progression of diabetic retinopathy and other vascular diseases like non arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy.

Many cases on investigation do not have any abnormality except increased homocysteine levels. To supplement this in the diet there are different formulations available which contain methyl folate, methyl cobalamin and pyridoxal phosphate. Sometimes patients have pernicious anemia in which the stomach cannot digest or absorb the vitamins.

I guess awareness is the key in all these conditions. If needed one should test B 12 levels and homocysteine levels in the blood.