WHAT IS Threonine?
Threonine is an essential amino acid that plays an important role in regulating protein balance in the body. Because it is considered “essential”, our bodies are unable to synthesize it, it must therefore be provided by the diet by consuming products rich in threonine. Threonine plays many vital roles in our bodies including the structure of bones, teeth (such as enamel), ligaments, tendons and skin. It is involved in several body systems such as connective tissue such as collagen and elastin.
Threonine plays a very important role for the nervous system but also for the digestive system. It helps regulate digestion by protecting the digestive tract and limits the accumulation of fat in the liver. It is also useful for intestinal disorders and may have an antidepressant effect.
A deficiency in essential amino acids, including threonine, can lead to a protein synthesis disorder, to depressed immune system, muscle weakness, weight loss, mood disorder and to poor healing.
Although supplementing with threonine in appropriate amounts is generally considered safe, if taken in exceeding doses, some side effects may include headaches, nausea, digestive issues and skin rashes.
A well-balanced diet that includes high-quality protein foods will usually provide the body with enough threonine to maintain healthy levels. Top threonine foods include meat (e.g. beef, pork, veal, lamb, game meat), poultry, seafood (e.g. whelk, cuttlefish, octopus), fish (e.g. salmon, tuna, trout, mackerel), eggs, dairy products (e.g. cheese), legumes (e.g. soybeans, lupins, white beans) and tofu.
All amino acids play a crucial role in helping athletes build muscle mass, build muscle strength and recover from tough training sessions. Threonine is a necessary precursor for the chemicals that are instrumental in the growth and maintenance of tendon and ligament tissue. Moreover, due to its role in collagen production, it also plays a vital role in the health of our muscles and bones.
In conclusion, our threonine levels impact many aspects of our physical health. In order to make sure that your threonine levels are balanced and steady, make sure to test your levels and to evaluate how you can make the right changes to rebalance your body and mind.