Did you know that one specific amino acid has the power to help with serious neurological health problems such as schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s, and epilepsy?
Recent research discovered that L-serine, a naturally occurring amino acid, may provide significant health advantages for the human brain and the central nervous system.
This single molecule present in some foods seems to have a deep effect on our mental health and well-being, but what are the exact mechanisms by which it does this?- Let’s learn all about it!
L-Serine Explained
L-serine is a precursor for major neurotransmitters and nerve components and it’s believed to play a role in the balancing of the brain activity by impeding overexcitation.
Taking L-serine as a supplement may help with erratic signaling and hyperexcitability in the brain, according to emerging studies.
Enough L-serine from dietary sources and supplements may be of aid in bringing harmony to the electrical activity associated with psychosis, cognitive decline, and seizures.
Our brain is driven by a complex balance of electrical signals and neurotransmitters and when this sensitive system is disrupted, the risk of seizures, neurodegenerative conditions, and psychiatric conditions increases.
In an effort to find solutions, researchers have focused on an amino acid known as L-serine and they claim it’s a promising approach.
The Role of L-Serine in the Body
L-serine, an amino acid, is produced naturally in the body and plays various roles in the central nervous system. It contributes to the synthesis of neurotransmitters, nerve cell membrane elements, proteins, and nucleotides.
L-serine has one-carbon units that provide key methylation reactions in the brain. It also acts as a precursor for glycine and cysteine, other amino acids that are essential for neural health.
According to studies, L-serine is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that can calm down the areas in the brain that are prone to overactivity. This mechanism makes L-serine interesting and promising as therapy for mental and neurological health issues associated with hyperexcitability of the brain.
As L-serine helps in the control of excessive electrical signaling, it may be of aid in reducing the risk of seizures of epilepsy, reducing mania in people with psychiatric disorders, protecting the neurons, and ensuring healthy cognitive aging.
The Benefits of L-Serine for the Brain
Research notes that l-serine is good for the brain. Here’s what they’ve discovered until now:
- It activates the NMDA receptors vital for cognitive function via conversion to D-serine
- L-serine lowers nerve cell hyperexcitability as it’s an inhibitory neurotransmitter
- It enables the production of essential neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and glycine
- It provides one-carbon units that are important for methylation that’s a pivotal process for the neurological health
- It’s needed for the synthesis of phosphatidylserine that’s been linked with cognition and memory
The Role of L-Serine in the Treatment of Neurological and Psychiatric Conditions
Epilepsy
It reduces the seizures and alleviates their severity.
Schizophrenia
It may better the symptoms like mania and hallucinations.
Alzheimer’s
L-serine may keep cognitive function safe and prevent decline.
Insomnia
In clinical trials, L-serine was found to be effective in bettering the quality and duration of sleep.
ADHD
L-serine supplements helped enhance attention and lowered hyperactivity in kids.
How Much L-Serine Do You Need & Which Food Sources Provide It?
Studies have found that most people’s diets provide approximately 2.5 grams of L-serine on a daily basis. However, experts note that a significantly higher amount may be better, especially in aging individuals.
This is why it’s usually recommended to opt for 500-1000 mg of L-serine supplements to achieve the desired effects.
In addition to supplements with L-serine, you can also acquire this vital amino acid from delicious foods listed below:
- Soy products- Фoods like tempeh, edamame, and tofu are rich in L-serine. Opt for the organic options only to prevent the presence of pesticides and herbicides.
- Eggs- This superfood provides a long list of nutrients, including L-serine. When possible, opt for organic eggs from free-range chickens.
- Seafood- Foods like caviar, fish, shellfish, and seaweed provide a high amount of premium protein with L-serine.
- Beans and lentils- these foods aren’t just tasty and easy to combine with other foods but are also abundant in L-serine.
- Nuts and seeds- Аlmonds, pumpkin seeds, pistachios, etc. are rich in plant-based L-serine so make sure you add them to your diet.
- Dairy- Foods like yogurt, cheese, milk, and whey protein contain L-serine.
- Meat- Quality meat like chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, and pork provide L-serine. Whenever possible, consume meat from grass-fed animals.
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