Alanine amino acid information

Alanine is a non-essential amino acid and is used by the body to build proteins and was first isolated in 1879. The alpha-carbon in alanine is substituted with a levorotatory (l)-methyl group, making it one of the simplest amino acids with respect to molecular structure and is one of the most widely used in protein construction.

Alanine required for

It is required for the metabolism of glucose and tryptophan and beta-alanine is a constituent of vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) as well as coenzyme A. It has also demonstrated a cholesterol-reducing effect in rats.

People suffering from Epstein Barr (also sometimes referred to as glandular fever) as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, has been linked to excessively high levels of alanine while having low levels of tyrosine and phenylalanine.

Deficiency indications

None known.

Dosage

Dosage listed is the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), but be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.

Most people do not need to supplement with alanine since it is well provided for in the diet, and can be synthesized from pyruvic acid (formed in the breakdown of carbohydrates).

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

Alanine does not have many side effects, but people with kidney or liver disease should not consume high intakes of amino acids without consulting a health care professional.

When more may be required

People on a very low protein diet, could be at risk of a deficiency.

Other interesting points

It has been found that alanine is present in prostate fluid, and it may play a role in the role of the prostate. In one study of men with benign prostatic hyperplasia, it was found that 780 mg of alanine per day for two weeks and then 390 mg for the next two and a half months, taken together in combination with equal amounts of glycine and glutamic acid reduced the symptoms.

Alanine found in food sources

As with the other amino acids, excellent sources of alanine include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Some protein-rich plant foods like avocado also supply alanine.

Nutritional information

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