Vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine in metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Juan R. Ulloque-Badaracco, Enrique A. Hernandez-Bustamante, Esteban A. Alarcon-Braga, Ali Al-kassab-Córdova, Juan C. Cabrera-Guzmán, Percy Herrera-Añazco, Vicente A. Benites-Zapata*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background & aims: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with life-threatening conditions. Several studies have reported an association of vitamin B12, folic acid, or homocysteine (Hcy) levels with MetS. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the association of vitamin B12, folic acid, and Hcy levels with MetS. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Ovid/Medline, and Web of Science were searched up to February 13, 2023. Cross-sectional, case-control, or cohort studies were included. A random-effects model was performed using the DerSimonian and Laird method to estimate the between-study variance. Effect measures were expressed as odds ratios (OR) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Between-study heterogeneity was evaluated using Cochran’s Q test and the I2 statistic. Results: Sixty-six articles (n = 87,988 patients) were included. Higher vitamin B12 levels were inversely associated with MetS (OR = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.81–0.93; p < 0.01; I= 90%). Higher Hcy levels were associated with MetS (OR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.14–1.24; p < 0.01; I= 90%). Folate levels were not associated with MetS (OR = 0.83; 95% CI: 0.66–1.03; p = 0.09; I= 90%). Conclusion: Higher vitamin B12 levels were inversely associated with MetS, whereas higher Hcy levels were associated with MetS. Studies assessing the pathways underlying this association are required.

Original languageEnglish
Article number1221259
JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology
Volume14
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023

Keywords

  • folate
  • homocysteine
  • meta-analysis
  • metabolic syndrome
  • vitamin B12

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