Description
"Threonine" is an essential amino acid required for protein synthesis and structural integrity in the body. Collagen and elastin rely on threonine for connective tissue strength, joint flexibility, and skin resilience. Liver function and fat metabolism are also supported through its role in detoxification. This amino acid is involved in neurotransmitter activity, helping maintain cognitive function and nervous system balance. A core element of dietary proteins, threonine has long been essential to both physical and mental well-being.
Functions in the Body
Category
Deficiency Symptoms
A deficiency in threonine can lead to agitation, mental health deterioration, fatty liver, decreased digestion, intestinal malfunctions, decreased nutrient absorption, and reduced protein uptake.
Synergists & Antagonists
Threonine works synergistically with methionine, aspartic acid, and magnesium to support liver function, brain health, and neurotransmitter function. It also plays a role in collagen synthesis, helping form glycine for connective tissues. No well-documented antagonistic interactions exist.
Threonine
Warnings
People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) should exercise caution when using threonine. It interacts with Alzheimer’s disease medications and can affect brain chemistry.
Food Sources
Threonine is found in foods like nutritional yeast, cottage cheese, cheese, soybeans, tofu, tempeh, pork, chicken, turkey, liver, fish, pumpkin seeds, lentils, and white beans.
Time Frame
Threonine can be taken anytime to support general health.
Depleted By
Threonine may be depleted by a threonine-deficient diet, stress, physical trauma, chronic illness, and imbalanced protein intake. Digestive issues could also reduce its absorption.