L-Threonine: A Possible Tool in the Fight against ALS

L-Threonine is one of the nine essential amino acids. That is, the body cannot manufacture L-Threonine, and so it must be consumed in the diet. Most of the L-Threonine in the human diet comes from animal products. There is a very small amount of L-Threonine in grains, but not enough to sustain an individual on a vegetarian diet. In the body, L-Threonine is found in the heart, skeletal muscles, and the central nervous system.

L-Threonine has a number of functions in the body. It is a precursor to the amino acids glycine and serine, and is necessary to keep these proteins at their essential levels. In combination with aspartic acid and methionine, L-Threonine serves to reduce fatty deposits in the liver, breaking down saturated fats into unsaturated ones.

L-Threonine is involved in the production of tooth enamel and elastin, as well as collagen, which is used in the production of bone. Antibodies are also produced with the help of L-Threonine. Clinical studies have been performed on the possible uses of L-Threonine for treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, in a year-long study of thirteen patients with ALS, there were not statistical differences recorded in the decline of their conditions between L-Threonine users and those given the placebo.

However, those taking L-Threonine did report fewer incidences of respiratory failure while taking the supplement. A second year-long, double blind study of L-Threonine against a placebo also showed no statistical difference between the decline of patients taking the supplement, and those taking a placebo. Other studies have been contradictory, with one very small study showing an improvement with L-Threonine, and another actually showing an increase in deaths.

There is no information available on the side effects or long-term safety of taking L-Threonine as a nutritional supplement. Those considering it should consult their doctor.

Recommended L-Threonine Supplement

We have stumbled upon a company that produces a product that provides the highest quality of L-Threonine is Xtend-Life Natural Products from New Zealand. Xtend-Life has one of the strictest regulatory environments in the world for the manufacture of dietary supplements, far exceeding U.S. FDA standards.

Their flagship product, Total Balance, contains standardized L-Threonine, along with many other potent herbal supplement extracts, numerous vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other speciality nutrients, many of which are documented in this site.

We here at www.InstantHealthSecret.com personally take Xtend-Life's Total Balance as the foundation of our own health regimen and have achieved excellent results: we have noticed an increase in energy, mental acuity, and general sense of well-being.