Threonine

Threonine (Molecular formula C₄H₉NO₃) is an essential amino acid that promotes normal growth by helping to maintain the proper protein balance in the body. It supports cardiovascular, liver, central nervous, and immune system function. 

Threonine is needed to create glycine and serine, which are two amino acids necessary for the production of collagen and muscle tissue. Threonine helps keep connective tissues and muscles throughout the body strong. It builds strong bones and tooth enamel, and speed wound healing or recovery from injury. 


Also, significant amounts are found in the heart. Threonine supports the immune system by aiding in the production of antibodies, and because it is found largely in the central nervous system.

It is an essential amino acid, which means it must be obtained from dietary sources. Since meat is the superior source of this amino acid, strict vegetarians may want to consider threonine supplementation. Symptoms of threonine deficiency include confusion, digestion difficulties and fatty liver.

Foods high in threonine:

·        cottage cheese

·         fish

·         meat

·         lentils

·         sesame seeds 

Sources:

http://www.vitaminstuff.com/amino-acid-threonine.html

http://www.biology.arizona.edu/biochemistry/problem_sets/aa/threonine.html