Amino Acids - Threonine

There are good levels of threonine in most flesh foods, dairy foods, and eggs and moderate levels in wheat germ, many nuts, beans, and seeds, as well as some vegetables.

Threonine is an important constituent in many body proteins and is necessary for the formation of tooth enamel protein, elastin, and collagen. It is found in high amounts in newborns, and requirements seem to decrease with age, yet increase with stress. Threonine also has a minor role as a liptronic in controlling fat buildup in the liver.

Threonine has a mild glucose-sparing effect and is an immune-stimulating nutrient.

A deficiency of threonine has been associated with a weakened cellular response and antibody formation. One gram of threonine twice daily may also be helpful in some cases of depression.