L-Histidine (60 capsules)

Functions of histidine

One of the most important characteristics of histidine is that the body can convert it into various substances. These include histamine, glutamate and haemoglobin. Furthermore, it plays a role in various metabolic reactions and hence indirectly ensures the oxygen supply to all the organs and tissues.

This amino acid is important in regulating the pH value of the blood. It also supports wound healing and regulates growth and repair mechanisms.It is also a building block for many molecules containing iron, for example ferritin. This function is important as it ensures a sufficient energy supply in the cells and can detoxify the body of heavy metals. It does this by combining with the metals.

Additionally, the body uses this amino acid to form the myelin sheath. This surrounds all nerve cells and protects them from damage, and can be important in preventing certain degenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Furthermore, histidine can protect the body from radiation damage. It does this by binding to the damaging molecules, therefore eliminating them. For this reason, scientists can administer a specially-designed preparation containing this amino acid before medical treatment where ionising radiation is involved. This can protect the body from the direct and indirect effects of radiation.This amino acid is also involved in producing red and white blood cells.

Therefore it influences the immune system, as leukocytes play a large role in combating pathogens. It can also help in cases of inflammation. This means that it can be useful in the treatment of arthritis and reducing allergy symptoms.

Medical uses

Blood pressure/Kidney disease

The discovery that this amino acid can lower the blood pressure was a particularly important step. As L-histidine relaxes the blood vessels, it can reduce blood pressure and help to prevent certain cardiovascular conditions. These include arteriosclerosis and heart attacks. Researchers also proved that the daily consumption of a nutritional supplement containing L-histidine can reduce the risk of cardiovascular conditions by up to 60.9%.

A further area where the use of L-histidine supplements is important is the treatment of chronic kidney failure. This is particularly common among older people. A low concentration of this amino acid in the blood plasma increases the inflammatory activity of the body and leads to a rise in oxidative stress. Scientists have found that histidine supplementation is directly associated with a reduced mortality rate

Infections

Scientists have recently discovered that histidine in combination with zinc can help against colds. The body can absorb zinc more easily when it is taken with histidine. Scientists conducted a study to test whether zinc and L-histidine can reduce the duration of a viral or bacterial infection. The study included over 40 participants. The researchers found that the consumption of both these substances together shortens the length of a common cold by an average of 3.6 days.

Histidine deficiency

The effects of stress, existing chronic conditions and injuries increase the daily requirement of histidine. After operations or in cases of anaemia, the body’s need for histidine can rise very rapidly. This might mean you need to consider taking supplements.

A deficiency in this amino acid could lead to inflammation of the skin and mucus membranes as well as slower recovery from an operation. An inadequate supply can have serious consequences for children and young people, as they are still growing and a deficiency can disrupt normal growth.

Histidine regulates the immune defence in the body, allergic reactions and inflammatory processes. Therefore a deficiency can lead to people becoming more susceptible to infection or experiencing aggravated allergy symptoms.