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What is L-Threonine used for?

Kemiex is an all-in-one market information, purchasing and sales platform for animal and human nutrition raw materials. In the following series of articles, we will explain the functions and uses of products that can be found in the Kemiex marketplace. On this occasion, we are going to explain the benefits of L-Threonine:

What is L-Threonine used for?

L-Threonine is an essential amino acid, meaning that it cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained through the diet or supplementation.

L-Threonine is involved in a variety of physiological processes, including protein synthesis, metabolism, central nervous system and immune system. It is a key component of several important proteins, including elastin and collagen, which provide structure and support to tissues such as skin, tendons, and cartilage. Overall, L-Threonine is a crucial component of a healthy diet and plays an important role in maintaining optimal health and wellness. Since it can not be produced by the body, it is important to obtain enough L-Threonine through the diet or supplementation to meet the body’s needs.

What are the main benefits of L-Threonine?

Some of the key uses and benefits of L-Threonine include:

1. Supports Protein Synthesis:

As an essential component of several important proteins, including elastin and collagen, L-Threonine plays a crucial role in the synthesis of these vital proteins, which provide structure and support to tissues such as skin, tendons, and cartilage. A lack of L-Threonine can result in the degradation of these important proteins, potentially leading to a range of health issues.

2. Regulates Metabolism:

L-Threonine helps to regulate the levels of other amino acids, such as serine and glycine, in the body. By maintaining the proper balance of these essential amino acids, L-Threonine helps to support a healthy metabolism and overall well-being.

3. Supports the Central Nervous System:

As a key component in the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and glycine, L-Threonine plays an important role in supporting brain function and mental health. Adequate intake of L-Threonine may help to support healthy brain function and maintain a positive mental state.

4. Supports Immune System:

L-Threonine is involved in the production of antibodies and other immune cells, making it an important nutrient for overall immune system function. Adequate intake of L-Threonine may help to support the immune system and protect against illness and infection.

5. Supports Liver Health:

As a key component in the removal of waste products from the liver, L-Threonine plays an important role in supporting liver health. By helping to maintain the health of the liver, L-Threonine can have a positive impact on overall well-being, including the regulation of metabolism and the maintenance of a healthy immune system.

While these are the main benefits of L-Threonine, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and determine the optimal dose and administration methods. As with any supplement, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a regimen of L-Threonine, to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

Which foods are the main sources of L-Threonine?

L-Threonine can be found in a variety of foods. It is also available in supplement form, but it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplements.

Here is a list of the main sources of L-Threonine:

1. Meat: Animal-based protein sources, such as beef, chicken, pork, and fish, are among the richest sources of L-Threonine. These proteins are particularly high in L-Threonine, making them an excellent source of this essential amino acid.

2. Seafood: Fish and shellfish are good sources of L-Threonine, with species such as shrimp, salmon, and halibut providing particularly high levels of this essential amino acid.

3. Dairy: Milk, yogurt, and cheese are all good sources of L-Threonine, with dairy proteins being particularly rich in this essential amino acid.

4. Eggs: Eggs are an excellent source of L-Threonine, with one large egg providing approximately 0.5 grams of this essential amino acid.

5. Poultry: Chicken and turkey are both good sources of L-Threonine, with a 3-ounce serving of cooked chicken providing approximately 0.6 grams of this essential amino acid.

6. Nuts and Seeds: Certain nuts and seeds, such as almonds and sunflower seeds, are good sources of L-Threonine, providing a plant-based option for those who are looking to increase their intake of this essential amino acid.

7. Whole Grains: Whole grain products, such as whole wheat bread, oatmeal, and brown rice, are good sources of L-Threonine, providing a source of this essential amino acid for those who prefer plant-based sources of protein.

8. Beans and Legumes: Beans, lentils, and peas are all good sources of L-Threonine, making them a valuable addition to a healthy, balanced diet.

9. Soy: Soy products, such as tofu and tempeh, are good sources of L-Threonine, making them an excellent source of this essential amino acid for vegetarians and vegans.

10. Fruits and Vegetables: Certain leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, are good sources of L-Threonine, making them a valuable addition to a healthy, balanced diet.

Recommended daily intake (RDI) of L-Threonine

The recommended daily intake (RDI) of L-Threonine varies depending on a number of factors, including age, sex, and overall health status. There is no official recommended daily intake (RDI) of L-Threonine established by the Institute of Medicine (IOM). However, the IOM classifies L-Threonine as an essential amino acid, which means that it must be obtained from the diet, as the body cannot produce it on its own.

The adequate intake (AI) levels for L-Threonine are as follows:

  • Infants 0-6 months: approximately 80-100 mg/kg/day

  • Infants 7-12 months: approximately 60-80 mg/kg/day

  • Children 1-3 years: approximately 25-30 mg/kg/day

  • Children 4-8 years: approximately 20-25 mg/kg/day

  • Children 9-13 years: approximately 20-25 mg/kg/day

  • Adolescents 14-18 years: approximately 35-45 mg/kg/day

  • Adults: approximately 40-60 mg/kg/day

It is important to note that these AI levels are estimated and may vary based on an individual’s age, sex, weight, and level of physical activity. It is always best to consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate amount of L-Threonine for your specific needs.

What are the main benefits of L-Threonine for animals?

L-Threonine is commonly used as a dietary supplement in animal feed to improve growth and feed efficiency. By improving the utilization of feed, L-Threonine can help to reduce production costs and improve the quality of meat and eggs.

This amino acid is essential for animals, just as it is for humans. It plays an important role in maintaining overall health and well-being. Here are a few of the main benefits of L-Threonine for animals:

1. Supports Muscle Health: L-Threonine is an important component of the structural proteins that make up the muscles, tendons, and connective tissues in animals. It helps to maintain muscle mass and function, as well as promoting overall muscle health.

2. Helps Maintain a Healthy Immune System: L-Threonine is involved in the production of antibodies, which are important components of the immune system. By helping to support a healthy immune system, L-Threonine can help to protect animals against infection and disease.

3. Promotes Liver Health: L-Threonine is involved in the production of liver enzymes, which are important for the proper functioning of the liver. It also helps to maintain liver health by promoting the synthesis of key liver proteins and supporting liver detoxification processes.

4. Supports Nervous System Function: L-Threonine is a precursor to the neurotransmitter GABA, which is important for maintaining normal nervous system function in animals. By helping to support nervous system function, L-Threonine can help to promote overall behavior, learning, and memory in animals.

5. Helps Maintain Healthy Skin and Coat: L-Threonine is a component of the structural proteins that make up the skin and hair in animals. It helps to maintain healthy skin and coat by promoting the synthesis of key skin and hair proteins, and supporting overall skin and hair health.

It’s important to note that while L-Threonine can be beneficial for animals, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian before starting any new supplement regimen, as the recommended dosages and administration methods can vary based on the species, size, and overall health of the animal.

Where to buy bulk L-Threonine and get market information?

In Kemiex, we offer a safe and private online environment to buy and sell raw materials for the Feed, Food, Vet and Pharma industries. We also offer market information such as Price Trends, Trade Flows and Market News for all the micro-ingredients of the mentioned industries.