Cystine belongs to the group of sulfur-containing amino acids. Its chemical formula is a set of colorless crystals poorly soluble in cold water. In the body, it is the main component of almost all proteins. In food production it is used as an additive E921.
Cystine and Cysteine
Cystine is an amino acid that is a product of the oxidation of cysteine. Both cystine and cysteine take an active part in the formation of peptides and proteins, the process of their mutual transformation is constantly taking place in the body, both amino acids are sulfur-containing substances and play an equal role in the metabolic process.
Cysteine is obtained through a long conversion from methionine, provided there are sufficient B vitamins and specialized enzymes. The rate of its production is influenced by metabolic disorders and some diseases, including liver disease.
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Cystine properties
The amino acid plays an important role in the body and performs a number of useful functions:
- participates in the formation of connective tissue;
- promotes the elimination of toxins;
- has an antioxidant effect;
- is potent anticarcinogenic;
- reduces the harmful effects of alcohol and nicotine;
- due to the sulfur content, it improves the absorption of other nutrients in cells;
- slows down the aging process;
- stimulates the growth of nails and hair;
- relieves symptoms of many diseases.
Cystine use
In addition to being used in the food industry, the amino acid is essential for the restoration and maintenance of the body's health. It is part of many drugs and supplements that are used for the complex treatment of various diseases.
Supplements with cystine in the composition are used for liver diseases, intoxication of the body, decreased immunity, cholelithiasis, bronchitis and tracheitis, dermatitis, damage to connective tissue.
With regular use of the substance in the recommended dose, the condition of nails and hair, complexion improves, the body's endurance increases, its protective properties are strengthened, resistance to infections, the healing of injuries and injuries occurs much faster.
As a food additive, cystine is widely used in bakery. It improves the appearance, color and texture of the product.
Dosage
Due to the fact that the body receives cystine from food, when using additional supplements with its content, the dosage should be monitored so that the daily dose of the substance does not exceed 2.8 grams. The optimal dose required to meet the daily requirement is 1.8 grams.
Sources
Cystine is found in natural proteins and peptides. It is found in the highest concentration in fish, soybeans, oats, wheat, garlic, onions, chicken eggs, oatmeal, nuts, and flour. The variety of foods is great, so even people on strict diets get enough amino acids.
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Indications for use
In a normally functioning body, cystine is produced in sufficient quantities. Additional application is required in the following cases:
- age over 60;
- intense sports training;
- the presence of poorly healing wounds;
- poor condition of nails and hair.
Contraindications
Like any other substance, cystine has contraindications for use. It is not recommended:
- Pregnant and lactating women.
- Children under 18.
- People with diabetes.
- Persons with hereditary cystinuria (violation of protein metabolism).
You can not combine the intake of cystine with nitroglycerin and antifungal drugs.
Cystine deficiency
The lack of a substance in the body occurs very rarely due to its sufficient natural production and the ability to interchange with cysteine. But with age and with intense physical exertion, its concentration decreases, and a deficiency leads to the following consequences:
- decrease in the protective properties of the immune system;
- susceptibility to various infections;
- deterioration of hair structure;
- brittle nails;
- skin diseases.
Overdose
When taking the supplement in a dosage exceeding the daily norm, unpleasant consequences and symptoms may occur:
- nausea;
- stool disturbance;
- flatulence;
- allergic skin reactions;
- dizziness and headaches.
With an excess of cystine in the body, the risk of malfunctioning of the cardiovascular system increases.
It is recommended to regulate the amount of the cystine dose taken with the help of a specialist; when taking biologically active supplements on your own, you must strictly follow the instructions.
Cystine use in athletes
By itself, cystine does not affect the rate of muscle building. But it is an amino acid, and amino acids act as an important building block for muscle fibers. Cystine is involved in the formation of collagen, which is the scaffold of cells and increases the elasticity of connective tissue.
Due to its sulfur content, it improves the absorption of beneficial trace elements into blood cells. Takes part in the synthesis of creatine, which is necessary to replenish the energy reserves spent on training. Together with other supplements, cystine accelerates the regeneration of muscle cells, bones, ligaments and cartilage.
It is a conditionally nonessential amino acid that can be synthesized on its own in the body, but requires supplementation when the level decreases. Various manufacturers offer athletes a large number of dietary supplements with cystine in their composition, for example, Douglas Laboratories, Sanas.
In addition to the beneficial effects on muscle tissue, this substance improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and helps to normalize the functioning of the liver, since it is in these organs that malfunctions can occur when taking sports nutrition.
Release form
As a dietary supplement, cystine is available in the form of tablets or capsules. Due to the fact that it is poorly soluble in water, it is not produced as a suspension. The manufacturer indicates the dosage of the substance on each package. As a rule, it is 1-2 capsules per day. The additive is used in courses, the duration of which depends on the indications. For the prevention of cystine deficiency, a course of 2 to 4 weeks is sufficient.
