Threonine - Nature Cures®

Threonine is an amino acid typically found in meat (especially heart, skeletal muscles) and in the nervous system). 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.

When combined with aspartic acid and methionine, threonine supports liver function through its lipotropic action, which removes body fat. Threonine also helps control the activity of nervous system.

As one of the top amino acids for brain function, and can reduce anxiety, provide clearer focus, improve concentration, enhance creativity and instil a more tranquil, stress-free state of mind. Theanine produces calming effects in the brain and nervous system by increasing levels of serotonin and dopamine. It is related to glutamine and can cross the blood-brain barrier.

Because it can enter the brain, theanine has psychoactive properties. It has been shown to reduce mental and physical stress and may produce feelings of relaxation and improve cognition and mood. It also helps to keep the body alert and attentive reducing stress levels and can cause a focused state of relaxation without tiredness or over-stimulated.

Research shows that that threonine helps to moderate the heart rate and blood pressure and is also a a good mood-enhancer. Nootropics are substances that improve cognitive function, particularly creativity, executive functions, memory, and motivation. Drinking green tea can have a slight effect as it is a source of threonine.

Deficiency of threonine

Deficiencies can lead to poor overall growth and development, especially in children, and may impact mental health, causing irritability, confusion, or even depression.

Symptoms of threonine deficiency

Digestive disorders
Increased liver fat
Muscle weakness
Immune system disorders
Mental health disorders

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

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