L-Threonine

Threonine is an essential amino acid. It is important for regulating protein balance in the body. This amino acid is a precursor to serine and glycine. These are two other amino acids necessary for muscle tissue production. L-threonine has many uses in the body.

L-Threonine supports:

• Digestive function
• Immune system
• Liver function
• Muscles and connective tissues
• Central nervous system.

L-Threonine, provided by Douglas Laboratories, supplies 500 mg of this amino acid in each capsule.

A large portion of l-threonine is absorbed in the upper reaches of the small intestine (ileum). Here this amino acid protects the digestive tract. Threonine is needed to produce the mucus gel layer that covers the digestive tract. This mucus is a barrier to digestive enzymes that can damage the intestines. Threonine is also used in other endogenous secretions. Hence, this amino acid is important for supporting healthy gut function.

Animal studies involving chickens, pigs, and rats have found that a low threonine diet leads to digestive problems and a reduction in immune function. Scientists believe this is due to a decline in the gut mucus barrier. Not only does this negatively affect the immune system, but it also disrupts nutrient absorption. Therefore this can lead to a cascade of health problems.

Signs You May Need L-Threonine

The most significant indication that you may need L-threonine supplements is if your diet is deficient in L-threonine. This is most likely to occur if you are a strict vegetarian, as the best sources of L-threonine are animal proteins. The best vegetable sources include grains and leafy vegetables, although they have much less L-threonine than meat. The most common signs of an L-threonine deficiency include a fatty liver, digestion difficulties and emotional agitation.

Supporting the immune system

L-threonine also helps to produce antibodies to boost the immune system. The thymus gland is responsible for making T lymphocytes (T- cells). These cells fight off infections, and the thymus uses threonine to make T-cells. Ensuring that the body has enough threonine to support immune function is important to safeguard against a host of diseases.

Liver health benefits

Threonine works together with the amino acids methionine and aspartic acid to support the liver. These amino acids help to facilitate lipotropic function. In this process the body digests fats. Therefore in the absence of sufficient threonine the liver would become overwhelmed by fats. In the worst case scenario, this would result in liver failure.

Supporting bones, muscles and connective tissues

The structural proteins collagen and elastin need threonine. This amino acid is the precursor for serine and glycine. Therefore these two amino acids are necessary to create these proteins. Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the body. It is vital for connective tissue formation and maintenance.

Thus, threonine helps to support strong and elastic muscles and connective tissue throughout the body. This includes the heart, which is why threonine is important for good cardiovascular health. Furthermore, this amino acid can help to accelerate healing of wounds and bones following injury.

Cognitive function

Threonine is in high concentrations in the central nervous system. There has been interest in the use of this amino acid in the treatment of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gherigs Disease) However, further studies are needed.

Additionally, other research has indicated the potential of threonine to help reduce some of the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), including a reduction in spasticity. Furthermore studies have found that threonine can help to fight depression and improve mental health.

INDICATIONS
L-Threonine may be a useful dietary adjunct for individuals wishing to supplement with this amino acid.

FORMULA (#7946)
1 Capsule Contains:
L-Threonine …………………………………………………………………………………………… 500mg

SUGGESTED USE
Adults take 1 capsule daily or as directed by your health care professional.

SIDE EFFECTS
No adverse side effects have been reported.

STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light. Keep out of reach of children.

REFERENCES

1. Borgonha S, Regan MM, Oh SH, Condon M, Young VR. Threonine requirement of healthy adults, derived with
   a 24-h indicator amino acid balance technique. Am J Clin Nutr. 2002 Apr;75(4):698-704.
2. Growdon JH, Nader TM, Schoenfeld J, Wortman RJ. L-threonine in the treatment of spasticity. Clin
   Neuropharmacol 1991;14:403-12.
   Lee A, Patterson V. A double blind study of L-threonine in patients with spinal spasticity. Acta Neurol Scand
   1993;88:334-8.
3. Mansoor O, Breuillé D, Béchereau F, Buffière C, Pouyet C, Beaufrère B, Vuichoud J, Van’t-Of M, Obled C.
   Effect of an enteral diet supplemented with a specific blend of amino acid on plasma and muscle protein
   synthesis in ICU patients. Clin Nutr. 2007 Feb;26(1):30-40. Epub 2006 Sep 25.

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