L-threonine is an essential amino acid so it must be ingested through foods or supplements rather than being synthesized by the body from other materials. As an amino acid it is one of the building blocks of proteins. L-threonine is also classified as being polarizing, meaning it has a direct effect on how specific molecules in the body either attract or repel one another. It is used as a supplement primarily for the purposes of boosting the immune system.
As one of the eight essential amino acids L-threonine is considered critical to the proper functioning of the human body. Because L-threonine is not as plentiful in our normal foods as some other amino acids, individuals who are on very strict diets are sometimes prescribed supplements to ensure they have enough L-threonine in their systems. Vegetarians are also common users of this supplement due to the fact that their dietary choices restrict their intake of this necessary amino acid.
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L-threonine Medical Use The most common use of L-threonine in the medical community is to boost the immune system. It is effective in doing so by promoting growth of the thymus, a small organ whose only function is to help control the functioning of what's known as the adaptive immune syst... more
The most common use of L-threonine in the medical community is to boost the immune system. It is effective in doing so by promoting growth of the thymus, a small organ whose only function is to help control the functioning of what's known as the adaptive immune system. Individuals with immunological diseases often find relief by taking supplements containing L-threonine.
Research is ongoing regarding how L-threonine may affect neurotransmitters in the brain. Some studies suggest that there is a positive effect to the extent that this amino acid could be used as a treatment for anxiety, stress-related disorders, depression, and other similar conditions. To date it is not used as a standard prescription for these disorders but it is growing in popularity among psychiatrists. If research concludes that L-threonine has a pronounced positive effect on neurotransmitters, it could also be used to treat several kinds of nervous system disorders.
Because of its known ability to promote a healthy immune system this a substance is often marketed specifically as a supplement for that purpose. It is not uncommon to find it as a standalone supplement or as part of a multivitamin product aimed at overall good health.
As an immune system booster it is most commonly sold in tablet or capsule form. However, L-threonine is marketed by some supplement manufactures as a standalone product or ingredient that is effective in regulating metabolism and reducing unwanted body fat.
In the area of metabolism it is believed that this substance does several things. First, it helps to speed up the metabolism in such a way as to help the body make the most use out of the foods ingested. Secondly, this increased metabolism also encourages the body to use unwanted fat as an energy source rather than breaking down muscle tissue. Thirdly, its immune and boosting properties are also believed to help promote a healthy digestive tract, which is essential for keeping weight off once it has been lost.
Bodybuilders often use this substance in powder form for all the reasons listed above. Since the goal of bodybuilding is to replace fat with muscle, and then maintain their physique through overall good health, it seems appropriate that they would choose supplements of this nature. In powder form, a normal dosage for L-threonine is about 2,000 mg daily.
Like all amino acids, L-threonine is considered safe for healthy people when taken in moderate doses. You should always follow the dosage instructions on product packaging carefully to avoid over dosage. All amino acids can cause unwanted side effects if users take them in excess amounts, the most common among them being the interruption of kidney and liver function. For example, excess amino acids can build up in the kidneys and prevent the absorption of certain nutrients into the system.
Furthermore, the proper functioning of the liver and kidneys requires the proper balance of all essential amino acids in something called the citric acid cycle. Too much or too little of any one amino acid can throw off the citric acid cycle, forcing the kidneys and liver to work much harder than they normally would. Although rare, this condition could ultimately lead to liver or kidney failure.
Before users begin any supplement regimen that includes amino acids they should consult with a physician regarding their overall health. A doctor is best suited to provide guidance in the use of such supplements. These supplements are not regulated by the FDA.
Relying simply on promotional materials and anecdotal stories from other users is not sufficient to protect you in the event that amino acid supplements are dangerous to your health. Please take proper precautions should you be considering using an L-threonine supplement.
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