Threonine

Overview:

Why threonine is good for you

Threonine is an essential amino acid that helps to maintain the proper balance of protein in the body. It is important for the formation of collagen and elastin in the skin, and aids to fight fatty liver, when combined with aspartic acid and methionine.

Important threonine facts

• Threonine is present in high concentrations in the heart, the central nervous system, and skeletal muscle
• It enhances the immune system by aiding in the production of antibodies and promotes thymus growth and activity - newborns have high amounts of threonine which decreases with age
• Threonine requirements increase if high levels of stress or trauma are experienced
• Other nutrients are better absorbed when threonine is also present

Groups at risk of threonine deficiency

Deficiency is rare, but can occur in the following individuals:

• People on low protein diets - people who are not eating enough protein foods may not get enough threonine in their diet
• Vegans / vegetarian - people who are on a strict vegetarian diet may suffer from a threonine deficiency if their diet is deficient in protein

People in these groups at risk of threonine deficiency should talk to a medical professional about threonine supplementation BEFORE taking it.

Symptoms of threonine deficiency

Deficiency may result in irritability and a generally difficult personality, including severe and sudden mood changes.

As threonine is a precursor of isoleucine, imbalance may result if the synthesis rate from aspartate is incorrect.

Threonine and health

• Depression - threonine has been used to successfully treat mild depression in some studies.

Talk to a medical professional about threonine supplements BEFORE taking them

Threonine in food

Threonine recommended daily intake (RDI)

Threonine works best with

• Folic Acid
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
• Vitamin C
• Chromium
• Magnesium
• Manganese
• Zinc
• Glycine
• Serine

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