L-SERINE - Uses, Side Effects, and More

As an essential amino acid, serine plays a huge role in the human body. First of all, it contributes to the process of protein digestion. It also enhances the immune system of the human organism. In addition, it improves a person’s memory, concentration, and ability to get and remember a lot of information. There are two types of serine, and they differ radically. Firstly, there is an L-serine, which a human can get from the food they consume. Secondly, there is D-serine, which is synthetized by the human body; this process includes L-serine.

What Is L-Serine?

Serine is an amino acid that contributes to various metabolic pathways. It is the primary supplier of one-carbon units required for the methylation actions of S-adenosylmethionine. Furthermore, it is a precursor to glycine and cysteine, critical amino acids. Although classified as a “nonessential” amino acid, consuming a lot of food is still necessary to achieve the ideal concentrations that it requires to achieve for general health wellness.

Amino acids are essential components of the structural compositions of all living cells and the corresponding antibodies that protect the immune system. Serine protects the haemoglobin molecules that play a crucial role in our physical bodies by distributing oxygen to all parts of the organization. They also produce necessary proteins that are vital to human beings. This amino acid has a particular effect on the central nervous system. All human body cells require serine to manufacture Phospholipids; however, it appears beneficial and necessary. It is vital in the creation of proteins and the generation of cells inside the body. It also plays a role in creating Muscles, RNA, DNA, and the immune system. To make serotonin, another essential neurotransmitter, the indispensable amino acid Tryptophan, requires serine.

Furthermore, D-serine results from the serine transformation inside the nerve system cells. The positive impacts of D-discerning on mental health are well documented. S-serine is the dextro isomer; therefore, two enantiomers are the same. Scientists believes that D-discerning could be useful in treating cognitive impairment or depression, as well as schizophrenia. It is well established that the chemical N-discern connects to the D-discern receptor. Developing the brain’s neurotransmitters using N-discernine’s respiratory enzymes is an interesting topic. It might be a useful treatment for cognitive pain.

What are the Properties of L-Serine?

The chemical serine is associated with many health-improving functions that enhance cognitive acuity, overall health, and physical attractiveness. Serine proteases, which are enzymes that can decompose protein, also participate in this process, help metabolize fat, produce immunoglobulins, and support the body to form antibodies. Thyroid hormones can also serve as the precursor to it.

The chemical maintains high cortisol levels that are often observed in stressful situations. Moreover, this essential, natural amino acid can lessen the feeling of pain and influence the muscles’ tissue development.

Serine improves cognitive performance in humans. It affects the brain since it plays a role in the synthesis of nucleotides. It enhances the functioning of the neurological system by regulating the firing of neurons. Moreover, it promotes the growth of the myelin sheath around the neuron. Consequently, it benefits cognitive function, improving information encoding in neurons and strengthening memory, concentration, and attention. 

What are some of the Foods that are High in L-Serine?

Serine meals facilitate the molecule's absorption in the small intestine, allowing it to enter the bloodstream. Subsequently, it has the potential to traverse the blood-brain barrier, infiltrate neurons, and undergo decomposition into glycine and several other compounds.

Here are some of the meals that have the highest levels of this amino acid: 

• Cereal
• Almonds
• Potatoes coated with sugar
• Dairy products
• Grass-fed beef

Inadequate intake of foods rich in this amino acid leads to a higher molecule conversion from other sources. Only a small portion of the surplus amino acid is converted into glycine, while the remaining portion is metabolised into folate and other proteins.

What are the Beneficial Uses of L-Serine?

L-serine is an amino acid that plays its beneficial role in many physiological processes in the body. Enlisted below are the uses taken from L-serine.

1.    Improves Sleep

Japanese research suggests that consuming L-serine before going to sleep improves individuals' sleep quality. The treatment group significantly enhanced their evaluations for "sleep initiation" and "sleep maintenance" when individuals dissatisfied with their sleep were given either the amino acid or a placebo 30 minutes before bed.

Participants in separate research reported substantial increases in their sleep quality after taking this amino acid for sleep when asked, "How well did one sleep last night?" Furthermore, the researchers would inquire about the level of satisfaction with the previous night's sleep quality to draw comparison between the pre and post serine supplementation. Consumers noticed significant improvement in their sleep quality that renders serine supplementation an essential element for individuals struggling with getting enough sleep.

2.  Brain Function

Research indicates that L-serine enhances brain function via many molecular and metabolic mechanisms, acting as a neuroprotective agent. It has a vital role as a neuromodulator in the brain and is necessary for synthesising phosphatidylserine, a fundamental component of brain neurons.

Phosphatidylserine, unlike serine, is a lipid that relies on L-serine for its synthesis. Phosphatidylserine is ingested to improve cognitive function and boost memory. Therefore, the utilisation of L-serine is prevalent in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and dementia.

According to an article in Pharmacy Times, supplementing with L-serine is beneficial for those who have a genetic or environmental predisposition to developing neurodegenerative illnesses.

3. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Current studies have investigated the potential of using L-serine as a therapeutic approach for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The atrophy of neurons in ALS results in the ultimate demise of muscular tissue.

In a clinical experiment involving twenty individuals with ALS, the administration of L-serine over six months resulted in a delay in the progression of the illness.

4. Fights Fibromyalgia

Research suggests that some individuals with fibromyalgia have a deficiency in serine, which impacts the body's ability to produce serotonin and Tryptophan. A study published in the journal Biochemical and Molecular Medicine found that persons with chronic fatigue syndrome had significantly lower amounts of serine in their urine compared to the control group.

5. Alzheimer's Disease

L-serine reduced the buildup of proteins in the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease, namely neurofibrillary tangles. Cell research indicates that exposure to L-serine has a mitigating effect on these tangles.

Monkeys with neurofibrillary tangles saw a considerable reduction in the levels of Alzheimer's disease-related proteins after receiving daily L-serine supplementation for four months. Moreover, D-serine has the potential to be used in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Some individuals with Alzheimer's disease have reduced levels of D-serine. 

6. Helps Relieve Stress

Tryptophan is an amino acid that is a natural relaxant and stress reliever. It relies on serine for its production. Due to its role as a precursor to serotonin, a naturally occurring calming neurotransmitter in the body, an elevation in tryptophan levels potentially alleviates anxiety and mitigates the symptoms of depression.

Research published in Nutritional Neuroscience has shown that Tryptophan improves the treatment of hormonal and behavioural disorders caused by stress. Studies have shown that levels of serotonin in the bloodstream impact mental well-being. Maintaining steady levels of serine potentially mitigates the impact of stress since it plays a crucial role in the production of serotonin and Tryptophan.

7.  Fights Cancer

According to a study published in the Journal of Cell Biology, active serine synthesis is likely essential for facilitating amino acid transport, nucleotide synthesis, folate metabolism, and homeostasis in a way that affects cancer. Studies suggest a potential correlation between serine metabolism alterations and cancer development.

L-serine metabolism is crucial for maintaining homeostasis since it enables the necessary cellular processes for oxidising food and generating energy in the form of ATP. Researchers hypothesise that increasing the availability of this essential amino acid promotes the growth of cancer cells since it is necessary for the production of certain macromolecules that limit cancer development.

8. Type 1 Diabetes

An animal study published in Plus One found that continuous administration of this amino acid reduced the occurrence of type 1 diabetes and the severity of insulitis in mice. Supplements containing L-serine were shown to reduce blood glucose levels, resulting in a small drop in body weight.

Based on this study, serine supplements have an impact on the development of autoimmune diabetes. Alongside a consistent rise in the occurrence of diabetes, obesity has emerged as a worldwide pandemic. Research has shown a correlation between diabetes and alterations in the body's serine metabolism. Thus, a 2018 study on animals indicates that supplementing with l-serine is a new and effective method to improve glucose control. Moreover, studies suggest that consuming l-serine aids in preventing the complications of diabetes, namely diabetic neuropathy, a kind of nerve damage caused by elevated blood sugar levels.

9. Heart Health Benefits

Unfortunately, cardiovascular diseases have become the leading cause of death worldwide, including in the United States. Nevertheless, just a small number of persons possess knowledge of their ailment till they encounter symptoms. Preventive measures are the most effective strategy for reducing risk and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. L-serine has the potential to mitigate cardiovascular ailments. For instance, a laboratory study conducted in 2008 showed that the addition of L-serine significantly reduces blood pressure by altering the heart's and blood vessels' capacity to transmit nerve signals.

Another study has shown that L-serine protects endothelial cells in the inner lining of blood arteries, lymph vessels, and the heart and has antioxidant properties. Before l-serine is recommended as a preventive measure for heart disease, more investigation is required by medical professionals.

10. Boosts Immune Function

Amino acids are necessary for the regulation of the immune system. The immune system uses serine for the production of immunoglobulins and antibodies.

To gain from the mentioned health benefits and profitable uses of L-serine, checkout Welzo’s list of various L-serine Supplements in affordable prices with the quickest service of doorstep delivery.

What are the Risks and Side Effects associated with consumption of L-Serine?

Research supports the FDA's conclusion that L-serine is generally regarded as safe. Adverse effects of L-serine include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as upset stomach, constipation, and diarrhoea, as well as increased frequency of urination. A study evaluating the safety profile and metabolic effects of L-serine supplements was published in Cold Spring Harbour Molecular Case Studies. One patient was administered L-serine for 52 weeks at a dose of up to 400 milligrams per kilogramme per day (mg/kg/day).

The patient underwent many clinical tests, including nerve conduction testing, and skin biopsies to determine the effect on small nerve fibres. Based on the findings, the levels of cytosine were reduced, although glycine showed a modest increase. The treatment did not result in any adverse effects associated with the L-serine supplement. Researchers determined that the treatment had little effect on metabolism. Medical experts must supervise individuals who take L-serine supplements to treat conditions such as neurodegenerative disease or chronic fatigue syndrome.

It is advised against the use of serine supplements during pregnancy or lactation owing to a lack of conclusive proof. Before consuming the amino acid, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, given the prevailing circumstances. 

What is L-Serine Supplements and its Dosage Recommendations?

L-serine is available as a dietary supplement in both powder and capsule formats. The molecule is also used in L-serine gummies and cognitive enhancers that are available for purchase. Most L-serine supplements are typically enclosed in 500-milligram capsules, and the appropriate dosage of L-serine varies based on health conditions. On average, people in the United States ingest around 2.5 grammes of serine daily. That amount is far lower than the daily intake of eight grammes consumed by Ogimi women, previously acknowledged for their remarkable longevity.

It is important to note that the human body requires sufficient quantities of folic acid and vitamin B to synthesise an adequate amount of this amino acid. Consuming folic acid-rich diets, including foods like beef liver, spinach, avocado, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts, could increase serine levels when paired with L-serine diets or supplements.

How to Use It?

The most effective approach to increasing serine amino acid levels is consuming foods naturally abundant in serine amino acids. The optimal foods for improving or sustaining proper levels are seaweed, eggs, almonds, organic soy products, L-serine-rich sweet potatoes, and seaweed. Supplementing with amino acids is beneficial for those with significantly reduced levels of the amino acid or for those whose doctors seek to alleviate the symptoms of their illness. The standard dose is 500 milligrams per day. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before exceeding the suggested dose.

People Also Ask

What is the Use of L-Serine in cosmetics?

Serine is often included in the formulation of cosmetic products. It is often included in tonics, skin creams, and hair treatments. Preserves the skin's inherent protective barrier, regulates pH levels, and provides optimal moisture levels. Additionally, it reduces the skin's vulnerability to inflammation. In addition, it has an anti-static effect and reduces hair static, along with other advantages for hair well-being such as enhancing the hair's texture, resulting in a sleek and lustrous appearance.

Is it safe to take L-serine supplements for a long interval?

Yes, moderate use of L-serine supplements for certain health goals is safe in the long run. It must be taken according to the recommended dosages to benefits from its role in protein synthesis and neurotransmission. It is also essential to consult a healthcare professional to adjust the dosage according to the health needs if one wishes to take it for a long time and must avoid the side effects such as gastrointestinal disturbance.

Conclusion

Serine is an amino acid that contributes to various metabolic pathways. Although classified as a “nonessential” amino acid, consuming a lot of food is still necessary to achieve the ideal concentrations that it requires to achieve for general health wellness. The chemical serine is associated with many health-improving functions that enhance cognitive acuity, overall health, and physical attractiveness. Serine proteases, which are enzymes that can decompose protein, also participate in this process, help metabolize fat, produce immunoglobulins, and support the body to form antibodies.

Serine meals facilitate the molecule's absorption in the small intestine, allowing it to enter the bloodstream. Foods rich in serine includes cereal, almonds, and dairy products. Consuming L-serine before going to sleep improves individuals' sleep quality that renders serine supplementation an essential element for individuals struggling with getting enough sleep. L-serine enhances brain function via many molecular and metabolic mechanisms, acting as a neuroprotective and a neuromodulator agent in the brain. This amino acid is a popular addition to the treatment regimen of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Serine supplementation can cause improvements in the symptoms of fibromyalgia in individuals with deficient reserves of this amino acid. Serine reduces the buildup and deposition of neurofibrillary tangles in the brain tissues which is a pathological cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Tryptophan is an amino acid that relieves the stress, and it comes only after getting processed by serine molecules, signifying the role of serine in mental health wellness.

L-serine has the potential to mitigate cardiovascular ailments by offering protection to the endothelial cells in the inner lining of blood arteries, lymph vessels, and the heart with its antioxidant properties. The standard dose for daily intake of L-serine is 500 milligrams per day. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before exceeding the suggested dose.