What is serine? Discover its functions, what are its most important health benefits and in which foods rich in serine you can find it.
The amino acids are chemical units similar to building blocks, which form proteins. This means that the protein substances that are built thanks to amino acids form the organs, tendons, muscles … and other parts of the body.
Depending on whether amino acids can be synthesized by our body or not, they are called essential amino acids and non-essential amino acids.
The essential amino acids must be provided to our body through the diet that is consumed daily, since our body is not capable of synthesizing them by itself, while the second – non-essential amino acids – can synthesize or manufacture them.
The serine is an essential amino acid for our nonessential body to be necessary for the metabolism of fats and fatty acids, and for the operation of the DNA and RNA.
What is serine?
Serine is a non-essential amino acid, which means that our body is capable of synthesizing it on its own.
It is essential, because from serine the synthesis of other amino acids can be carried out, such as tryptophan, glycine and cysteine.
Serine functions
- Thanks to serine, the synthesis of other amino acids can be carried out.
- It is part of the myelin sheaths that protect nerve fibers.
- Important for the functioning of DNA and RNA.
- Helps in the growth of muscles.
- Useful in the formation of cells.
- It helps in the formation of antibodies and in the production of immunoglobulins.
- Necessary for the correct metabolism of fatty acids and fats.
- Helps maintain a good immune system.
Health benefits of serine
As we have briefly indicated in the previous section, dedicated to the different functions of serine, we are faced with a fundamental amino acid for our body, since it participates in the synthesis of other amino acids.
In addition, it is important for the functioning of RNA and DNA, it helps in the growth of muscles, the formation of cells and antibodies, in the production of immunoglobulins and in the maintenance of a good immune system.
Our body also needs serine to enjoy a correct metabolism of fats and fatty acids.
Where to find serine?
Here are the foods richest in serine:
- Food of animal origin: meat, fish, dairy and eggs.
- Plant-based foods: vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
