Methionine: essential amino acid

The essential amino acids are those that our body is not able to synthesize, so that the only way to provide them to our body is from the diet, opting above all for those foods with high protein content especially rich in these essential nutrients.

Its function is very simple (apart from the fact that, in particular, each essential amino acid complies with a great diversity of functions): our organism decomposes proteins with the aim of obtaining those amino acids, and then forming new proteins.

Among the essential amino acids that we can contribute to our body through diet we find the methionine, one of the most known.

What is methionine?

It is an essential amino acid that stands out for its high sulfur content, a mineral beneficial for the good maintenance of skin, hair and nails, and fulfills a primary function: it is essential to synthesize both taurine and cysteine.

Functions of methionine

  • It helps to keep the skin, hair and nails in good condition.
  • It helps in the decomposition of fats.
  • Useful in the detoxification of certain agents harmful to our health, including heavy metals such as lead.
  • Decreases muscle weakness
  • Prevents brittle hair
  • Protects against the harmful effects of radiation.
  • Reduces the level of histamine in the body.

Benefits of methionine for health

As we see, methionine is an essential amino acid that acts as a natural antioxidant and provides a great diversity of especially useful and appropriate benefits for our health.

On the one hand it helps the breakdown of fats, in a way that prevents fat accumulation both in the arteries and in the liver (disorder that is called fatty liver).

On the other, it is an amino acid especially useful when it comes to enjoying good health in hair, nails and skin, and also prevents brittle hair.

Certain studies have shown that methionine is especially beneficial for those women who take oral contraceptives, by promoting the excretion of estrogen.

Where to find methionine?

Here are the foods richest in methionine:

  • Food of animal origin: milk and derivatives, eggs, meat and fish.
  • Plant-based foods: cereals, legumes, sesame seeds, vegetables and nuts.

Image | treehouse1977 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

Amino Acids- Methionine (March 2024)