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Isoleucine is an essential amino acid and is part of the three "branched chain amino acids" (BCAA) - the other two being leucine and valine. This amino acid cannot be manufactured in the body, and needs to be supplied in the diet and was first isolated in 1904 from fibrin.
Isoleucine is one of the essential amino acids and is needed for hemoglobin formation and also stabilizes and regulates blood sugar and energy levels. It is also involved in blood-clot formation. It is metabolized in muscle tissue. As one of the three branched-chain amino acids, these amino acids are valuable for athletes because they enhance energy, increase endurance, and aid in the healing and repair of muscle tissue.
SOURCES
Food sources of isoleucine include almonds, cashews, chicken, chickpeas, eggs, fish, lentils, liver, meat, rye, most seeds, and soy protein.
It is also available in supplemental form. Supplemental isoleucine should always be taken with a correct balance of the other two branched-chain amino acids, leucine and valine - approximately 2 mg each of leucine and valine for each 1 mg of isoleucine. Combination supplements that provide all three of the branched-chain amino acids are available and may be more convenient to use.
MOLECULAR DESCRIPTION
Isoleucine is a member of the aliphatic side-chain amino acid family that is composed of extremely hydrophobic biochemicals that are found principally in the interior of proteins and enzymes. Like several other members of this family (valine and leucine), isoleucine is an essential amino acid that is not synthesized by mammalian tissues. Another feature of this class of amino acids is that they appear to have no other significant biological role than incorporation into proteins and enzymes, where their main purpose is to help dictate the tertiary structure of the macromolecules. Isoleucine is incorporated into proteins at a molar rate of 4.6 percent when compared to the other amino acids.
ISOLEUCINE DEFICIENCY
Deficiency of isoleucine is only found in people deficient in dietary protein but symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, depression, confusion as well as irritability. Symptoms of deficiency may mimic the symptoms of hypoglycemia. This nutrient has also been found to be deficient in people with mental and physical disorders, but more research is required on this.
ISOLEUCINE HEALTH BENEFITS
Supplements and protein powders that contain leucine are used extensively by bodybuilders and other people involved with strenuous athletic activity under extreme pressure and high altitude may benefit from supplementation of this nutrient.
SUPPLEMENTAL FORMS
Tablet
Powder
Capsule
ISOLEUCINE DOSAGE
Most people ingest enough isoleucine from their diet, although some individuals do supplement their diet with about 650 - 700 mg of isoleucine per day (based on a 70 kg body), or worked out to 10 - 12 mg per kg of body weight per day.
If you are taking a supplement of isoleucine, keep it in balance with the other two branched-chain-amino-acids leucine and valine in the formula of 2 mg of leucine and valine for each 1 mg of isoleucine.
RDA Requirement:
- Infant 3-6 months: 80 mg per kg of body weight
- Child 10-12 years: 28 mg per kg of body weight
- Adults: 12 mg per kg of body weight
TOXICITY & SYMPTOMS OF HIGH INTAKE
Consuming higher amounts of isoleucine is not associated with any health risks for most people but those with kidney or liver disease should not consume high intakes of amino acids without medical advise.
People ingesting higher amounts of isoleucine report elevated urination.
ISOLEUCINE SUPPLEMENT PRODUCTS
Branched Chain Amino Acids, Free Form, 120 Caps
The branched chain amino acids (BCAA's) leucine, isoleucine and valine are three of the eight essential amino acids the human body must receive in food.
Amino 1000 Complete, NOW Foods, 120 Caps
Amino 1000 Complete contains a balanced blend of 20 essential and non-essential amino acids.
Amino 1500, Chewable Blend of 20 Amino Acids, Predigested, NOW Foods, 150 Tabs
This Amino 1500 contains a balanced blend of 20 essential and non-essential amino acids in a chewable format.
Herbal Remedies: Isoleucine / L-Isoleucine Supplements & Products
Herbal Remedies: Isoleucine / L-Isoleucine Information
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