Valine is an essential amino acid (properties that contain the needs of the body)

Amino acids

3K 0 11/29/2018 (last revision: 07/02/2019)

Valine is an aliphatic (branched) amino acid that is part of 70% of proteins, but is not synthesized by the body. Acts as a matrix for the synthesis of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and penicillin (valinomycin). The value of this amino acid is difficult to overestimate: the body is not able to fully work without the L (L) and D (D) isomers of valine, since they supply the energy used in muscle tissue and are responsible for the body's movement in space.

Characteristic

Valine was first obtained in laboratory conditions in 1901 by the German chemist Emil Fischer by hydrolysis of casein. The amino acid is named after valerian because it is involved in stimulating the body's activity, thereby maintaining its structural integrity.

Valine has similar characteristics to leucine and isoleucine. This amino acid is hydrophobic, therefore it is almost inert to chemical and biochemical processes in the body, but at the same time determines the three-dimensionality of proteins and can absorb other amino acids.

Valine is also called a glucogenic amino acid for the ability of its isomers to be transformed in the liver into glucose - the most accessible source of energy for muscles. In parallel, vitamin B3 is synthesized from valine isomers.

Pharmacological properties

The very name of the amino acid suggests that its main property is the effect on the central nervous system with the regulation of the processes of inhibition and excitation.

In addition, she:

• shows a stimulating effect;
• enhances the regeneration processes in the body;
• increases tissue endurance to external influences;
• resists stress and mental strain;
• actively counteracts the development of alcohol and drug addiction;
• balances metabolism, reducing appetite and promoting weight loss;
• reduces the threshold of pain sensitivity, especially when exposed to the temperature factor;
• regulates the production of growth hormone, hemoglobin, nitrogen concentration in the body;
• improves the condition with advanced sclerosis.

Daily requirement

A person needs about 2-4 g of valine per day. The exact dosage is calculated using the formula: 10 mg of amino acid per 1 kg of body weight. If it is necessary to increase the dose, not 10, but 26 mg of bio-substance are taken as the starting point.

Remember that when taking valine preparations, any dose calculations are made by the doctor, since the compound has serious contraindications for admission and can bring not only benefits, but also harm. In case of liver or kidney failure, hemolytic anemia, diabetes, gastrointestinal tract pathology, the use of the amino acid is limited.

Food sources

Since valine is an essential amino acid, its concentration in the body depends solely on its intake with food. The top amino acid content in food in correlation with nutritional value is presented in the table.

The B5 and B3 are most easily absorbed from nuts and eggs.

Indications

Valine is recommended:

• with depressive conditions, sleep disorders;
• migraine;
• as a component in the treatment of alcoholism and drug addiction;
• with physical strain;
• its lack in the body;
• excess weight;
• functional disorders in the food and urinary system;
• detoxification;
• injuries with violation of tissue integrity.

However, athletes need the essential amino acid the most. Especially those involved in strength and functional training. They need it to stimulate metabolic processes, muscle recovery after training, increase muscle mass, and increase overall endurance. (here is a good selection of endurance exercises).

Contraindications

Valine is always prescribed after clinical and laboratory examination and is contraindicated in the case of:

• severe violations of the liver, kidneys, heart;
• pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• if the patient is under 18;
• diabetes mellitus, hepatitis, metabolic disorders;
• individual intolerance.

Side effects

In case of an overdose, symptoms of intoxication are observed: nausea, fever, vomiting, heart palpitations, delirium.

Lack of valine is manifested by weakness and increased fatigue, impaired concentration.

Interaction with other substances

When a substance is taken in combination with other drugs, its features must be taken into account:

• the amino acid is always taken together with leucine and isoleucine (the dosage is calculated by the doctor);
• Valine is never used simultaneously with tryptophan and tyrosine, as it reduces their penetration into brain cells;
• the amino acid is perfectly absorbed during meals - with cereals, muesli;
• the lack of substance inhibits the absorption of other amino acids.

About excess and lack of valine

Both a lack and an excess of amino acids in the body lead to negative symptoms. Therefore, you should carefully read the instructions for use of the drug, especially in terms of dosage.

In excess:

• problems with the nervous system: vision, tremors, loss of sensation;
• problems with thermoregulation;
• disorders in the digestive system, dysfunction of the liver and kidneys;
• slowing down of blood flow, microcirculation.

The disadvantage causes:

• degenerative processes in tissues;
• decreased immunity;
• memory impairment;
• insomnia;
• depression;
• skin rashes.

The amino acid is sold in pharmacies and specialty store websites. The cost depends on the manufacturer, the margin is about 150-250 rubles per 100 g.

Watch the video: What Are Complete Proteins, Incomplete Proteins, Essential Amino Acids, Non Essential Amino Acids (June 2025).