
Threonine, not to be confused with another amino acid theonine, is found in body especially the heart, skeletal muscles and in the nervous system. It is a building block for proteins and a precursor to other important compounds in the body.
Threonine and bones, skin and muscle repair
Threonine is a precursor of glycine synthesis in the spinal cord and is essential for a healthy nervous system. It also plays an important role in the formation of collagen and elastin which are proteins that provide structure and elasticity to skin, bones, muscles, and connective tissues. It is important for athletes and others involved in intense exercise as it helps the muscles repair themselves.
Threonine and intestinal support
It is also important for the production of mucins, which form a protective mucus gel layer that lines the digestive tract and acts as a barrier against damaging digestive enzymes and pathogens.
Threonine, liver support and weight loss
When combined with aspartic acid and methionine, threonine supports liver function through its lipotropic action, which removes body fat.
Threonine and the immune system
The thymus gland uses threonine to create T-cells (T lymphocytes) that help fight off infections, therefore it is vital for a healthy immune system.
Threonine and healthy hair
The unique chemical properties of threonine support hair growth and make it a useful nutrient to help repair damaged and colour-treated hair.
Threonine and the brain and mental health
Because threonine is also a vital component in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and glycine, it is vital for brain function and mental health. Consuming foods rich in theonine will promote healthy cognitive function and maintain a positive mental state.
Natural sources of threonine in milligrams per 100 grams
- Spirulina (dried) 2970 mg
- Chlorella (dried) 2400 mg
- Whelks 2136 mg
- Calf’s liver 1149 mg
- Lamb’s liver 1322 mg
- Pheasant 1220 mg
- Pumpkin and squash seeds 1213 mg
- Quail 1131 mg
- Beef (lean mince) 1041 mg
- Mussels 1025 mg
- Cod 1006 mg
- Tuna fish (tinned) 1118 mg
- Mackerel (tinned) and caviar (fish roe) 1017 mg
- Rabbit (wild) 975 mg
- Salmon (Atlantic farmed) 969 mg
- Sunflower seeds 928 mg
- Black beans 909 mg
- Cheddar cheese 886 mg
- Shrimp/prawns 846 mg
- Venison 818 mg
- Flaxseeds 766 mg
- Lobster 761 mg
- Turkey 759 mg
- Crab 741 mg
- Sesame seeds 736 mg
- Soya beans 723 mg
- Chicken 706 mg
- Squid 670 mg
- Crayfish 644 mg
- Peanuts 610 mg
- Almonds 598 mg
- Walnuts 596 mg
- Eggs 556 mg
- Rye 532 mg
- Quinoa 421 mg
- Wheat 396 mg
- Black beans 373 mg
- Pine nuts 370 mg
- Brazil nuts 362 mg
- Brown rice 291 mg
- Spinach 217 mg
Related subjects
- A-Z of nutrients
- Bone and joint disorders
- Brain and mental health disorders
- Hair and nail disorders
- Immune system disorders
- Intestinal disorders
- Liver disorders
- Nerve disorders
- Obesity
- Recovery from injury and surgery
- Skin disorders
- Sports nutrition
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