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Cysteine is a nonessential amino acid that can be synthesized in our body from serine and vitamin B6. Sometimes, hydrogen sulfide can be used as a source of sulfur for the synthesis of cysteine. Cysteine aids in digestion. In addition, it neutralizes some toxic substances in the body.
According to scientists from the Koblek Institute, cysteine helps protect our body from the damaging effects of radiation. It belongs to the group of antioxidants. Its effect on the body is greatly enhanced by the simultaneous use of selenium and vitamin C. It has been noted that cysteine is also able to prevent the toxic effects of alcohol and nicotine on the liver, lungs, heart and brain of a person.
Cysteine rich foods:
General characteristics of cysteine
Cysteine is part of keratins, which in turn are a protein derived from nails, skin and hair. In addition, this amino acid is involved in the synthesis of digestive enzymes.
Cysteine is involved in the biosynthesis of amino acids: cystine, glutathione, taurine and coenzyme A. Cysteine is registered as a food additive E920.
At the ambulance stations, cysteine is used as a means of protecting the liver from damage from acetaminophen overdose.
Daily requirement for cysteine
The daily requirement for cysteine is up to 3 mg per day. In order for this amino acid to have the most beneficial effect on the body, it is imperative to think about activator substances. Vitamin C and selenium are the activators.
It should be noted that vitamin C should be taken 2-3 times more (in mg) than cysteine. In addition, the daily requirement for cysteine should be coordinated taking into account the consumption of foods containing this amino acid in its natural form.
The need for cysteine increases:
- when performing work related to harmful chemicals;
- during the treatment of chronic diseases of the heart and blood vessels;
- while in an area characterized by a high degree of radioactive radiation;
- with diseases of the respiratory system;
- at the initial stages of cataract;
- for rheumatoid arthritis;
- with oncological diseases, as part of complex therapy.
The need for cysteine decreases:
- while consuming a large number of products from which cysteine can be synthesized in our body on its own (onions, garlic, eggs, cereals, bakery products);
- during pregnancy and lactation;
- in case of arterial hypertension;
- with diseases of the thymus gland;
- in cases of diabetes mellitus, cysteine is able to inactivate insulin.
Digestibility of cysteine
Cysteine is best absorbed in the presence of vitamin C, selenium and sulfur. And, therefore, for the complete assimilation of cysteine, and to provide them with the appropriate functions, you should daily consume products that include cysteine, its derivatives and activator elements.
Useful properties of cysteine and its effect on the body
Cysteine reduces the risk of developing myocardial infarction. Gives elasticity to blood vessels. Increases the body’s defenses and its resistance to various infections. Actively fights cancer. It speeds up the healing process and plays an important role in the activation of lymphocytes and leukocytes.
Cysteine contributes to the maintenance of excellent physical shape by stimulating rapid recovery. It does this by accelerating fat burning and building muscle tissue.
Cysteine has the ability to break down mucus in the airways. Due to this, it is often used for bronchitis and pulmonary emphysema. Instead of cysteine, you can use the amino acid cystine or N-acetylcysteine.
N-acetylcysteine helps to reduce the negative effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy on the human body. In addition, it speeds up recovery from surgeries, burns and frostbite. Stimulates the activity of white blood cells.
8. Interaction with essential elements
Cysteine interacts with methionine, sulfur and ATP. Plus, it goes well with selenium and vitamin C.
Signs of a lack of cysteine in the body:
- brittle nails;
- dry skin, hair;
- cracks in the mucous membranes;
- memory impairment;
- weak immunity;
- depressed mood;
- problems with the cardiovascular system;
- violation of the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
Signs of excess cysteine in the body:
- irritability;
- general discomfort in the body;
- thickening of the blood;
- disruption of the small intestine;
- allergic reactions.
Cysteine for beauty and health
Cysteine normalizes the condition of hair, skin and nails. Improves mood, affects the full functioning of the cardiovascular, digestive system, affects the brain, strengthens the immune system.
Dietary supplement E920 (cysteine) is commonly found in flour and all kinds of seasonings. For example, chicken. Cysteine can be found in various medicines and household chemicals. It is often added to shampoos.
Improves the taste of food, has a beneficial effect on health. Basically, cysteine as a dietary supplement is well tolerated by the body. The exception is people prone to allergies. People who do not tolerate monosodium glutamate are also at risk.
So, in the article we talked about the nonessential amino acid cysteine, which, under favorable conditions, can be produced by the body on its own. The beneficial properties of this amino acid have been studied enough to be able to say about its benefits for our health and visual attractiveness!