What is leucine? Discover the functions of leucine, the health benefits of this amino acid considered essential and in which foods to find it.
The essential amino acids differ from the nonessential amino acids in that they cannot be synthesized by the body, so in order to obtain necessary to do it through our diet, especially by those foods rich in protein.
When we provide our body with essential amino acids from the food we eat, it breaks down proteins (in order to obtain these amino acids), and then form new proteins.
What is leucine?
As we indicated earlier, leucine is an essential amino acid that we have to contribute to our body through our diet, as we are unable to synthesize it.
Together with isoleucine and valine, leucine is one of the most abundant branched-chain essential amino acids, which become the only ones used during physical exercise by our body.
Leucine functions
- It is part of the genetic code.
- It is involved in the formation and repair of muscle tissue, helping in turn to protect the muscles.
- Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- It acts as energy in high-effort workouts.
- Helps increase growth hormone production.
Health benefits of leucine
Leucine is an essential amino acid that interacts with valine and isoleucine to promote bone, muscle, and skin healing.
In addition, it is an amino acid recommended in sports practice, as it helps to repair muscles, and provides energy in high-effort workouts.
It reduces blood sugar levels, and also helps increase the production of growth hormone.
Where to find leucine?
The food groups richest in leucine are those foods rich in animal protein, such as fish, meat, milk and eggs.
