Cysteine
Cysteine is a sulphur containing non-essential amino acid, which is formed from methionine. It is necessary in the detoxification of the body from harmful toxins. Cysteine helps protect the liver and brain from damage. It is required in the manufacture of taurine and is a component of glutathione. Skin nails and hair contain cysteine – and it is not only important in collagen production but also assists in skin elasticity and texture.
What it is
Cysteine functions as a powerful anti-oxidant in detoxifying harmful toxins. Cysteine may protect the body from radiation damage. It protects the liver and brain from damage due to alcohol, drugs, and toxic compounds found in cigarette smoke. It has been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and hardening of the arteries. It promotes the recovery from severe burns and surgery. It promotes the burning of fat and the building of muscle. It may slow down the aging process. Skin and hair is made up of 10-14% Cysteine.
What it does
Cysteine is required by our skin as well as to detoxify our body. It is found in beta-keratin, the main protein in nails, skin as well as hair. It not only is important in collagen production but also assists in skin elasticity and texture.
Cysteine is also required in the manufacture of the amino acid taurine and is a component of the antioxidant gluthione. It is useful to detoxify the body from harmful toxins and help protect the brain and liver from damage from alcohol, drugs etc.
It has also been found that it may help in strengthening the protective lining of the stomach as well as intestines, which may help prevent damage caused by aspirin and similar drugs.
Cysteine is also critical to the metabolism of a number of essential biochemicals including coenzyme A, heparin, biotin, lipoid acid, and glutathione.
Major benefits
- Required for proper Vitamin B6 utilisation
- Helpful in healing of burns and wounds
- Breaks down mucous deposits in illnesses such as bronchitis and cystic fibrosis
- Increases level of glutathione in the lungs, liver, kidney and bone marrow
- May have anti-aging effects on the body be reducing age spots etc.
- Detoxification agent to protect the body against damage of alcohol and cigarette smoke, and may be effective in preventing hangoves
- Prevents liver and brain damage
Dosage
General daily requirement is not known but as supplement cysteine is used at 200 mg two to three times per day.