So, what kind of foods can give you the optimal amount of Methionine you need? And why is this Methionine so necessary? If these are the questions that you have, then this is the post you must check out!
Read on and find out about Methionine, its uses, side effects and most importantly, what are the commonly found foods that contain Methionine.
What Is Methionine?
Methionine is an amino acid; the basic block that links up with other amino acids and bonds to form protein. Methionine isn’t produced in the body, and it helps in the formation of cartilages. Methionine is also quite essential for many cell functions. It helps prevent hair loss and strengthens your nails. (1)
Uses:
Methionine has other uses, apart from helping in the formation of cartilages (2). Some of them include:
Increases acidity of urine
Improves wound healing
Treats acetaminophen (Tylenol) poisoning
Treats liver disorders
Other Possible Uses:
Treats depression
Alcoholism
Allergies
Asthma
Copper poisoning
Radiation side effects
Schizophrenia
Methionine Deficiency:
Although Methionine itself can have adverse effects on the body and an excess of it should be avoided at all costs, Methionine deficiency can lead to conditions like steatohepatitis (liver inflammation), anemia and premature greying of hair.
Cautions:
Methionine is quite essential for the body and improves many body functions. However, it does have some possible side effects and you should exercise caution while using it.
1. Children:
Methionine might be safe for children when ingested orally (3) or injected intravenously (by IV) to treat acetaminophen poisoning. However, this process should only be carried out in the presence of a physician. It may lead to complications in infants, who are receiving parenteral nutrition.
2. Pregnant Women:
There is no information on the safety of Methionine consumption when you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The best thing to do is avoid using Methionine while you pregnant. (4)
3. May Induce Acidosis:
Methionine may alter blood acid levels, and if you suffer from acidosis, you should refrain from consuming foods that are rich in Methionine. (5)
4. Schizophrenia:
Regularly consuming large doses of Methionine can lead to disorientation, agitation, delirium and other symptoms of schizophrenia.
Now that we know what Methionine is and how it can affect the body, let’s look at what foods are rich in this amino acid:
1. Brazil Nuts:
These popular and tasty nuts contain the highest amount of Methionine among all foods, with a whopping 154% of the Methionine RDI (Recommended Dietary Intake).
2. Pork (Cooked):
Another great protein source, cooked pork is high in Methionine with around 117% of the RDI.
3. Chicken Breast (Cooked):
Cooked chicken breast is one of the most succulent meals to have. It is also crammed with proteins and has a 127% RDI level of Methionine.
4. Roasted Beef:
Another high protein food, roasted beef also contains decent amounts of Methionine, with 135% of the RDI.
5. Parmesan Cheese:
You can’t go wrong with parmesan, can you? It is tasty, creamy and highly nutritious, containing the most essential amino acids. Parmesan boasts of a high Methionine level, with 132% of the RDI.
6. Roasted Soybeans:
Another great source of vegetable protein, roasted soybean has many health benefits and also contains high amounts of Methionine, with 73% of the RDI.
7. Tuna (Cooked):
Oily fish like tuna are crammed with proteins. Tuna contains 115% of the RDI of Methionine.
8. Yogurt:
Yogurt is mooted to be a better protein source than milk. This is because of the low water content of curd compared to milk. Yogurt contains a moderate amount of Methionine, at 23% of the RDI.
9. Boiled Eggs:
Hard boiled eggs are the choice of protein for body builders. Hard boiled eggs boast of high protein levels, with around 54% of the RDI of Methionine.
10. White Beans:
White beans are used in many recipes and are rich sources of vegetable based protein. They contain decent amounts of Methionine, at 20% of the RDI.
So, include these foods in your diet today and get your Methionine levels back on track. Tell us about your experiences with these foods. Leave a comment in the box below!
