Homocysteine is an amino acid seen in high concentrations in deep vein thrombosis and in heart disease. In fact, elevated homocysteine levels are considered a marker, indicative of heart disease risk.
Individuals with celiac disease often have low vitamin B12 levels because of their inability to absorb nutrients from food optimally.
In a report published in the Feb 2009 issue of World Journal of Gastroenterology, researchers show that vitamin B supplements increase levels of B vitamins and also lower homocysteine levels, reducing the risk for heart disease.
The study's authors concluded that "regular use of B-vitamin suplements is effective in reduction of homocysteine levels in patients with celiac disease and should be considered in disease management."