Threonine is an important part of various proteins in the body and plays a necessary role in the formation of elastin and collagen which both help with healthy skin and wound healing as well as tooth enamel. It enhances immunity, cell immune defense function, and helps prevent fatty build-up within the liver.
The body synthesizes threonine into glycine which aids in the reduction of constant unwanted contractions of the muscles or spasticity.
It can be sourced from a wide variety of protein-rich food including organic meats, wild-caught fish, dairy, cottage cheese, eggs carrots, bananas, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, kidney beans, edamame, spirulina, and lentils. There are also dietary supplements containing this amino acid that you can take to increase your intake of this nutrient.
L-Threonine Benefits
- L-threonine is known for its ability to support muscle and bone strength thanks to its role in collagen and elastin production. It supports proper elastin function which helps your skin, tendons, and ligaments resume its shape after stretching or contracting.
- It also accelerates wound healing. Threonine is metabolized from your body’s tissues following an injury that triggers the production of collagen which the body then uses to heal damaged tissues.
- L-threonine also plays a role in maintaining a healthy liver by regulating fat metabolism and facilitating lipotropic function. It prevents the build-up of fat in the liver and protects the liver from failure.
- This amino acid also aids in keeping your digestive tract healthy. It produces a mucus layer that protects it from damaging digestive enzymes resulting in improved gut function.
- As a precursor to glycine, L-threonine also plays a role in alleviating anxiety and mild depression. It aids in the improvement of sleep, mental performance, mood, and memory.
Dosage Recommendations for L-Threonine
L-threonine is available in 500-mg capsules that can be taken up to three times daily. The most common recommended dose for this supplement is 500 mgt o 1000 mg. If you’re taking it to address deficiencies, it’s best to consult a physician beforehand.
While Threonine deficiency in people is rare, people with an unbalanced diet may be prone to low levels of this amino acid in their bodies. Without enough L-threonine, people may experience symptoms such as digestive problems, irritability or emotional agitation, confusion, increased liver fat, and poor nutrient absorption.
Safety Considerations for L-Threonine
Taking L-threonine is considered safe when taken in appropriate amounts. However, overconsumption of this supplement may cause side effects such as headache, nausea, upset stomach and skin rash.
People taking NMDA antagonists often used to treat Alzheimer’s disease should avoid using this supplement.
