Amino acid histidine: description, properties, norm and sources

Histidine is a protein hydrolysis product. Its largest percentage (over 8.5%) is found in blood hemoglobin. First obtained in 1896 from proteins.

What is Histidine

It is known that meat is a source of animal proteins. The latter, in turn, contain amino acids. For example, histidine, without which life on Earth is impossible. This proteinogenic amino acid takes part in protein genesis and affects metabolism.

Amino acids are used to make proteins. Some of the body gets in the process of digesting food. Some of them are irreplaceable, others the body is able to synthesize on its own. Against the general background, histidine stands out, which combines the characteristics of both groups. It is called that - a semi-essential amino acid.

The person experiences the greatest need for histidine in infancy. An amino acid in breast milk or formula promotes growth. It is of no less importance for adolescents and patients in the process of rehabilitation.

Due to unbalanced nutrition and stress, histidine deficiency can develop. In childhood, this threatens with growth disturbance and its complete stop. In adults, rheumatoid arthritis develops.

Functions of a unique amino acid

Histidine has shown amazing properties. For example, it is capable of transformation into hemoglobin and histamine. Participates in metabolism, contributes to tissue oxygenation. It also removes harmful substances and increases the level of immunity.

Other functions:

• regulates blood pH;
• accelerates regeneration;
• coordinates growth mechanisms;
• restores the body in a natural way.

As already mentioned, without histidine growth, tissue healing and life itself are impossible. Its absence leads to inflammation of the mucous membranes and skin.

Recovery after surgery takes a long time. Entering the body, the amino acid provides an effective therapy for joint diseases.

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In addition to these properties, histidine is involved in the formation of the myelin sheaths of neurons. Damage to the latter entails degeneration of the nervous system. The synthesis of leukocytes and erythrocytes, on which immunity depends, cannot do without an amino acid. Finally, the most unexpected property is protection against radionuclides.

The role of histidine in medicine

Studies of the potential of the substance are still underway. However, it is already known that it helps to lower blood pressure. Relaxes blood vessels, protects against hypertension, heart attacks, atherosclerosis and other diseases. The effectiveness of the amino acid in the fight against disorders of the cardiovascular system has been scientifically proven (reducing risks by 61%). An example of such a study can be found here.

Another area of ​​application is nephrology. Histidine improves the condition of patients with kidney pathologies. Especially the elderly. It is also indispensable in the treatment of gastrointestinal and liver diseases. It is indicated for arthritis, urticaria and even AIDS.

Daily rate of histidine

For therapeutic purposes, doses in the range of 0.5-20 g / day are used. An increase in consumption (up to 30 g) does not entail side effects. However, such a reception cannot be prolonged. A dose of no more than 8 g / day is adequate and safe.

The formula allows you to choose the optimal dosage of histidine: 10-12 mg / 1 kg (body weight).

For maximum effectiveness, the amino acid as a dietary supplement should be used on an empty stomach.

Combinations with other substances

According to one study conducted, a combination of histidine with zinc is an effective cure. The latter ensures easy absorption of the amino acid in the body.
40 people were involved in the experiment. In the course of research, it turned out that the combination of zinc and an amino acid minimizes the manifestations of respiratory diseases. Their duration is reduced by 3-4 days.

Application nuances

Histidine in the form of dietary supplements is prescribed to patients in the postoperative period. And also to persons suffering from anemia and arthritis. In the presence of bipolar disorders, asthma and allergies, amino acid preparations are contraindicated. Caution should be taken when taking supplements with its inclusion in pregnant and lactating women. And also in the case of a lack of folic acid in the body.

Histidine is indispensable for stress, trauma, chronic diseases and high physical exertion. It is vital for athletes. In these cases, food sources will not cover the need. Dietary supplements become the solution to the problem. However, the recommended dosage should not be exceeded. The "response" of the body can be digestion malfunctions and a decrease in acidity.

Amino acid metabolism disorder is a rare hereditary pathology (histidinemia). It is characterized by the absence of a specific degrading enzyme. The result is a sharp increase in the concentration of histidine in body fluids and urine of the patient.

Danger of deficiency and overdose

Studies have shown that histidine deficiency causes rheumatoid arthritis. Moreover, disease is treated with this amino acid. In infancy, a lack of histidine can cause eczema. Systematic underutilization of the substance provokes cataracts, diseases of the stomach and duodenum. On the part of the immune system - allergies and inflammation. Deficiency also results in stunted growth, decreased sex drive, and fibromyalgia.

Histidine is non-toxic. However, its excess leads to allergies, asthma, high cholesterol levels. Excessive intake of the amino acid by men is the cause of premature ejaculation.

What foods contain histidine

The daily need for histidine is fully covered by the food set. Food intake is approximate. Examples (mg / 100 g).

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The amino acid balance in an adult's body is easily maintained by its own synthesis. Children need a constant supply of histidine from external sources. Therefore, a balanced menu is the most important factor in healthy development.

The content of amino acids in protein food is able to meet the current needs of physiological systems. Animal products include "complete" proteins. Therefore, they are most valuable.

Plant foods do not contain the full range of essential nutrients. It is quite easy to replenish histidine resource. In case of deficiency, the use of products of different groups is required.

Record holders for amino acid content:

• a fish;
• meat;
• milk and its derivatives;
• cereals (wheat, rye, rice, etc.);
• seafood;
• legumes;
• chicken and quail eggs;
• buckwheat grain;
• potatoes;
• mushrooms;
• fruits (bananas, citrus fruits, etc.).

The daily need for histidine can be compensated by seafood and any type of meat (except lamb). And also cheeses and nuts. From cereals, you should choose buckwheat, wild rice or millet.

Review of dietary supplements with histidine

Additive name	Dosage, mg	Release form	Cost, rubles	Packing photo
Twinlab, L-Histidine	500	60 tablets	About 620
OstroVit Histidine	1000	100 grams of powder	1800
MyProtein Amino Acid 100% L-Histidine	There is no data	100 grams of powder	1300

Conclusion

The value of histidine can hardly be overestimated. It is essential for the healthy development of a growing body. Without this amino acid, blood cells and neurons are not formed. It provides protection against radiation radiation, helps to remove heavy metal compounds.

The daily diet requires close attention. It allows you to maintain the resources and potential of the body at the proper level. Histidine-rich foods are essential for infants, adolescents, and postoperative patients. The effectiveness of a semi-essential amino acid has been scientifically proven. Without it, human health and life itself on the planet is unthinkable.

Watch the video: Metabolism of Histidine and Lysine. Metabolism of Basic Amino Acids. NEET PG. Biochemistry (June 2025).