Methionine amino acid information page

Methionine is a sulfur containing essential amino acid and was first isolated in 1922 from casein and belongs to a group of compounds called lipotropics - the others in this group include choline, inositol, and betaine. It is important in the process of methylation where methyl is added to compounds as well as being a precursor to the amino acids cystine and cysteine.

on this page

• Methionine is required for
• Deficiency of methionine
• Dosage
• Toxicity and symptoms of high intake
• Best used with
• When more may be required
• Food sources
• Methionine found in the following Zest for Life products

Methionine is required for

It assists in the breakdown of fats and thereby prevents the build-up of fat in the arteries, as well as assisting with the digestive system and removing heavy metals from the body since it can be converted to cysteine, which is a precursor to gluthione, which is of prime importance in detoxifying the liver.

The amino acid methionine is also a great antioxidant as the sulfur it supplies inactivates free radicals. It may also be used to treat depression, arthritis pain as well as chronic liver disease - although these claims are still under investigation. Some studies have also indicated that methionine might improve memory recall.

It is also one of the three amino acids needed by the body to manufacture creatine monohydrate, a compound essential for energy production and muscle building.

Deficiency of methionine

Severe deficiency may manifest in dementia, while lesser deficiencies may be known by symptoms like fatty liver, slow growth, weakness, edema and skin lesions.

Dosage

The dosage listed underneath is the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), but be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.

The daily dosage of methionine is about 12 mg per kilogram of body weight per day - which would translate to about 840 mg for a 70 kg male.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

It has been suggested that a high intake of methionine, in the presence of B vitamin deficiencies, may increase the risk for arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) by increasing blood levels of cholesterol and a compound called homocysteine; and that excessive methionine intake, with an inadequate intake of folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12, may increase the rate of conversion of methionine to homocysteine - both these theories have not been proven in humans.

Best used with

If you are considering taking a methionine supplement, it is best to balance it with choline and inositol.

When more may be required

People with liver problems, pancreatitis, HIV/AIDS as well as Parkinson's disease may consider obtaining more methionine, after consultation with their health professional, and older people may also benefit from a slightly higher intake of this nutrient.

Women on birth control pills could also look at this nutrient, since it promotes the excretion of estrogen. People suffering from schizophrenia could investigate taking extra methionine since it reduces the level of histidine in the body, a level normally higher in people suffering from schizophrenia.

Food sources

Methionine is found in good quantities in meat, fish, beans, eggs, garlic, lentils, onions, yogurt and seeds.

Methionine found in the following Zest for Life products

• Millenium 2000 - Slimming and weight-loss capsules

• Hair, Nail & Skin supplement - multi nutrient capsules

  • Click here to view our full product range.

Our products

	Adaptogens. Balance and help us cope with stresses.
	Anti-aging supplement. Helps to fight the signs and symptoms of ageing.
	Antioxidants. Fight ageing, degenerative disease and free radicals.
	Apple cider vinegar capsules with Gotu Kola. The trusted folk remedy.
	BodyGuard. Immune boost formula.
	Enzymes. Required for metabolic processes.
	Millenium 2000. Slimming capsules to make dieting easy.
	OystaCal. The best organic and bio-available calcium.
	Phytosterols. Plant chemicals to boost your system.
	Hair, Skin and Nail Formula. The best formula for improving your looks.
	Vitalyze. Your high-energy boost to live life with vigor and stress-buster.
	Vuka 2000. The most advanced sexual supplement.

Nutritional information

Here are some information page on which you can read more about a specific nutrient and the role it plays in our general well-being. Please note - we do not use or sell all of these compounds but include the information for the benefit of our clients and visitors. To visit our selection of vitamin products please click here.