Histidine

Histidine is an essential amino acid that is significant in the growth and repair of tissues. It is important for the maintenance of the myelin sheaths that protect nerve cells, and is needed for the production of both red and white blood cells. Histidine also protects the body from radiation damage, aids in removing heavy metals from the system, and may help in the prevention of AIDS.

Histidine levels that are too high may lead to stress and even psychological disorders such as anxiety and schizophrenia; people with schizophrenia have been found to have high levels of histidine in their bodies. Inadequate levels of histidine may contribute to rheumatoid arthritis and may be associated with nerve deafness. Methionine has the ability to lower histidine levels.

Histamine, an important immune system chemical, is derived from histidine. Histamine aids in sexual arousal. Because the availability of histidine influences histamine production, taking supplemental histidine-together with vitamins B3 (niacin) and B6 (pyridoxine), which are required for the transformation from histidine to histamine-may help improve sexual functioning and pleasure. Because histamine also stimulates the secretion of gastric juices, histidine may be helpful for people with indigestion resulting from a lack of stomach acid.

Persons with manic (bipolar) depression should not take supplemental histidine unless a deficiency has been identified. Natural sources of histidine include rice, wheat, and rye.

Where is it found ?

Dairy, meat, poultry, and fish are good sources of histidine and the other amino acids.

Who is likely to be deficient ?

According to limited research, many individuals with rheumatoid arthritis have low levels of histidine. Taking histidine supplements might improve arthritis symptoms in some individuals.

How much to take

Most people do not need to supplement histidine. Optimal levels for others remain unknown. Human research has used between 1 gram and 8 grams per day.

Side effects

No side effects have been reported with histidine; however, individuals with kidney or liver disease should not consume large amounts of amino acids without consulting a health-care professional.

Caution

Excessive levels of histidine may result in psychological problems, such as schizophrenia and anxiety. Methionine can be used to lower histidine levels. Insufficient levels are associated with nerve deafness. Low levels may result in rheumatoid arthritis. Do not take histidine if you have manic-depressive disorder (bipolar disorder) unless a deficiency has been discovered.

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