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Cysteine
L-Cysteine is a sulfur-containing non-essential
amino acid, making it a veritable favorite as an anti-oxidant. It's closely
related to Cystine, which basically consists of 2 Cysteine molecules bonded
together.
Cysteine
is very unstable and almost immediately converts to Cystine when it gets the
chance. Its not a true problem, because if the body needs it, it can easily
convert it back to Cysteine. Its required for healthy skin, detoxification of
the body (due to the sulfur-content) and the production of collagen (used for
skin elasticity and texture).
That
is why it is found most often in beta-keratin. (Keratin molecules are the
things that make up hair, nails and such, and provide you with healthy skin.
Keratin is a protein often formed and stored in skin tissue.)
Here
is where cysteine proves its use as a vital component of life. It is the
manufacturer of taurine, which is a compenent of glutathione. Gluthione in
turn protects the brain and liver from damage by way of drugs, alcohol and
other substances the body considers harmful.
Taurine
is now found in many creatine products, but to what effect, no one seems to be
able to tell me. Probably to get the most out of Lipoic acid, though I fail to
see how it could be really useful even in that way.
It
strengthens the protective lining of the stomach and intestines to prevent
damage by products that are not wanted in the body (Which is why it is hard to
get the most out of pills and medicin). But it does qualify as a very good
liver protector.
Moreover,
cysteine is critical to the metabolism of other very useful things to the
bodybuilder, including coenzyme A, heparin, biotin (B-vitamin), and the
praised alpha lipoic acid. It's manufactured from methionine.
Use
To Bodybuilders Metabolizer
of B-vitamins, detoxification of damage due to other supplements, and
potentiating insulin.
Dosage
200-300 mg, two to three
times daily.
Overdosing
Only possible in
diabetics.
Medical
Uses Liver-protecting
and easing of debilitating diseases.
Sources
Poultry, wheat, broccoli,
eggs, garlic, onion, and peppers.
Deficiency Unknown.
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