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What is
Leucine?
Leucine is an essential
amino acid. It belongs to a special group of amino acids
called branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are needed
to help maintain and repair muscle tissue. Leucine also
helps prevent muscle proteins from breaking down during
exercise.
What does
in the body?
Leucine helps with the
regulation of blood-sugar levels, the growth and repair of
muscle tissue (such as bones, skin and muscles), growth
hormone production, wound healing as well as energy
regulation.
It can
assist to prevent the breakdown of muscle proteins that
sometimes occur after trauma or severe stress.
It may also be beneficial
for individuals with phenylketonuria, a condition in which
the body cannot metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine.
Where is it found?
All
protein-containing foods have some amount of leucine and
other BCAAs. The best sources include red meat and dairy
products such as eggs, milk and cheese. Whey protein and egg
protein supplements are other good sources.
Symptoms of Deficiency/Side Effects
Deficiency of this nutrient is rare, since all protein foods
contains it, but vegans and vegetarians without adequate
protein sources may suffer from a deficiency. Hypoglycemia
symptoms may appear if the diet is deficient and may include
dizziness, fatigue, headaches.
Consistent evidence of toxicity has not been linked to
leucine supplements. A high intake of leucine could
contribute to pellagra as well as increase the amount of
ammonia present in the body. |
