The herbal and health information provided in this Web Site is intended as historical information only. The historical uses are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nothing listed within this Web Site should be considered as medical advice for dealing with a given problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific health problems. Persons with serious medical conditions should always seek professional care.
Alanine is a non-essential amino acid that can be manufactured by the body with proper nutrition. Alanine is an important source of energy for muscle tissue, the brain and central nervous system. Alanine strengthens the immune system by producing antibodies, and helps in the metabolism of sugars and organic acids.
This amino acid is known to be involved in the metabolism of the vitamin pyridoxine, and also tryptophan. Alanine is one of the most widely used in protein construction, averaging about 9% of average protein composition on a per-mole basis when compared with the other amino acids. Alanine has little therapeutic role in humans, although it has been demonstrated to display a cholesterol-reducing effect in rats. Alanine is present in prostate fluid, and it may play a role in supporting prostate health. One study, involving 45 men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (or BPH), found that 780 mg of Alanine per day for two weeks, and then 390 mg for the next two and a half months, taken in combination with equal amounts of the amino acids glycine and glutamic acid, reduced symptoms of BPH.
As with the other amino acids, excellent sources of Alanine include fish, meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Some protein-rich plant foods also supply Alanine.
