Methionine
Description
Methionine is a sulphur-containing amino acid that is considered essential because the human body is unable to synthesize it. It is found in abundance in eggs, meat, fish, as well as in soya and Brazil nuts.
Methionine is a component of proteins. It also acts as a precursor to another sulphur-containing amino acid, cysteine, and contributes to the synthesis of taurine.
Methionine also contributes to the production of glutathione, a peptide with powerful antioxidant properties that helps protect cells against the deleterious effects of free radicals.
In addition, the presence of a sulphur atom in the structure of methionine is thought to be the cause of the hepatoprotective, or even nephroprotective, effect of this amino acid, allowing the regeneration of liver and kidney cells.
Methionine is involved in the breakdown of lipids and prevents fatty deposits from forming in the liver and gallbladder. It also helps maintain normal cholesterol levels.
The benefits
Methionine is an "essential" amino acid, as it is not synthesized by the body.
Methionine is involved in the formation of glutathione, a molecule that helps maintain the balance between the biochemical processes of oxidation and reduction at the cellular level.
Scientific publications
Methionine is the subject of more than 53 408 scientific publications.
