Homocysteine: the cheap stroke marker that's rarely on the standard panel
An amino acid linked to cardiovascular risk and blood clots. Here's the evidence-based case for testing—and what functional medicine knows that your GP might not.
10 min read
Good reasons to test
- Known MTHFR gene variant
- Family history of early cardiovascular disease
- B12 or folate deficiency
Targeted Testing
Homocysteine
Measures homocysteine, an amino acid whose blood level is influenced by folate, B12 and B6
$79one-off, no subscription
- NATA-accredited pathology
- No GP referral needed
- Results in 3 to 5 business days
- Collect at 1,900+ centres
Why this test
Homocysteine testing promises cardiovascular insights, but the evidence for treatment is more complicated than the headlines suggest.
Homocysteine is influenced by folate, B12 and B6 status, kidney function and inherited differences such as MTHFR variants. Raised levels have been linked with cardiovascular risk in population studies, but lowering homocysteine with B-vitamin supplements has not been shown to reduce heart attacks, and the evidence for stroke is mixed. In Australia it is a targeted test, not a routine screen.
Understanding your results
Typical range
Your homocysteine is in the ideal range
Borderline elevated
May benefit from B-vitamin optimisation
Elevated
Worth discussing with your healthcare practitioner
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and personal context. Your result is shown against the lab's range in your dashboard, alongside what it means.
How it works
1
TODAY
Order online
Pick a test or panel and check out. No GP referral, no waiting room.
2
THIS WEEK
One quick visit
Walk into one of 1,900+ NATA-accredited collection centres. A single blood draw is all it takes.
3
IN 3 TO 5 BUSINESS DAYS
Clear results
We translate your results into plain language in your dashboard - what each marker means, and what is in range.
4
ONGOING
Track over time
Retest when it matters and watch your trends, so you can see what is actually changing.
Complete your health picture
Tests and panels that pair well with this one.
Functional B12 Panel
Learn more B12, MMA, homocysteine, and intrinsic factor antibodies — a functional view of how your body actually absorbs and uses vitamin B12
$299Heart Health
Learn more An advanced look at lipid profiles, inflammation, and emerging heart health markers for proactive tracking.
$329Longevity Foundation Panel
Learn more A foundational set of markers for long-term health tracking, including metabolism and inflammation.
$279Vitamin B12
Learn more Vitamin B12 measurement for nutritional status and neurological health assessment.
$129Read more about this test
Evidence-based articles from the Clarity Journal.
This information is for general education and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results are best interpreted with a qualified healthcare practitioner in the context of your symptoms and history.