GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Histidine is occasionally referred to as a
semi-essential amino acid. This means that the body can usually produce adequate amounts of
histidine, however in certain circumstances, such as periods
of rapid growth, the body cannot supply enough to
meet demand. Histidine is found in beans, brewer’s yeast, dairy products, eggs, fish, legumes,
meat, nuts, seafood, seeds, soy, whey, and whole
grains.
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
The body uses histidine to produce histamine,
a substance that plays a central role in allergic reactions and other functions of the immune
system. Histidine also helps to chelate trace minerals
and copper, thus aiding their
removal from the body. People with rheumatoid arthritis may
have low blood levels of histidine. This discovery
led to speculation that histidine supplements may be of benefit to patients with rheumatoid arthritis. However, as of yet no clinical studies have been able to find any evidence to support these
theories.
DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:
are no known symptoms of histidine deficiency.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT: A typical therapeutic dosage of histidine is 4-5g per
day.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:
Not established, however large doses of histidine
can cause premature ejaculation, reduce
zinc levels and possibly trigger an allergic or asthmatic
reactions.
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
People with kidney or liver disease should
consult their doctor before taking supplementary
histidine.
