Histidine: essential amino acid
The amino acids They are organic compounds that our body is able to convert into new proteins. Depending on whether our body can synthesize them or not, they are called essential amino acids Y non-essential amino acids.
Thus, in this way, the essential amino acids are those that our body is not able to synthesize on its own, so that for this to be possible it is necessary to obtain them from the diet that we follow daily. The opposite happens with non-essential amino acids, which our organism can synthesize them.
The histidine it is an essential amino acid; Therefore, the only way to obtain it and to contribute it to our body is from the diet, taking foods rich in proteins that contain it.
What is histidine?
As indicated briefly in the previous lines, histidine is considered an essential amino acid, which means that it is necessary to opt for foods rich in histidine (usually all those foods rich in proteins) to be able to contribute them to our body.
Specifically, it consists of an amino acid that we find abundantly in hemoglobin, and is very important in the maintenance of the myelin sheaths (which protect the different nerve cells).
Histidine functions
- We find it abundantly in hemoglobin.
- Necessary for the production of both red blood cells and white blood cells.
- Essential for the growth and repair of tissues.
- Fundamental for the maintenance of myelin sheaths.
Benefits of histidine for health
As we already discovered in the section dedicated to the different functions of histidine, the truth is that although it is a lesser known essential amino acid, it is essential in the production of red and white blood cells (hence, we find it abundantly in hemoglobin), as well as being essential for the maintenance of the sheaths of myelin
It helps reduce blood pressure, is useful in the removal of heavy metals and also protects the body from radiation damage.
From a medical point of view, it is usually used in the treatment of ulcers, anemia, allergies and rheumatoid arthritis.
Where to find histidine?
Here we indicate which are the foods richest in histidine:
- Food of animal origin: milk and dairy products, eggs, meat and fish.
- Food of vegetable origin: cereals, vegetables, seeds and nuts.
Image | Olaf This article is published for informational purposes only. You can not and should not replace the consultation with a Nutritionist. We advise you to consult your trusted Nutritionist. ThemesAmino acids
