Alanine
Alanine is a non-essential amino acid and is used by the body to build protein and was first isolated in 1879. The alpha-carbon in alanine is substituted with a levorotatory (l)-methyl group, making it one of the simplest amino acids with respect to molecular structure and is one of the most widely used in protein construction.
What it does
Alanine is required for the metabolism of glucose and tryptophan and beta-alanine is a constituent of vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) as well as coenzyme A. It has also demonstrated a cholesterol-reducing effect in rats. Alanine also plays a major role in the transfer of nitrogen from peripheral tissue to the liver.
It aids in the metabolism of glucose, a simple carbohydrate that thebody uses for energy. It guards against the buildup of toxic substancesthat are released into muscle cells when muscle protein is broken downquickly to meet energy needs, such as what happens with aerobicexercise. Alanine strengthens the immune system by producing antibodies.
People suffering from Epstein Barr (also sometimes referred to as glandular fever) as well as chronic fatigue syndrome, have been linked to excessively high levels of alanine while having low levels of tyrosine and phenylalanine.
Benefits
- Increases muscular strength and power output
- Increases muscle mass
- Boosts muscular anaerobic endurance
- Delays fatigue