Leucine and isoleucine are essential amino acids that cannot be produced in the human body. Along with valine, these amino acids comprise the group of amino acids called the branched chain amino acids, or BCAAs. They help the body to perform specific functions and can be found in several foods. Slight differences distinguish leucine from isoleucine, but both are necessary for sustaining life.
Function of Leucine
Leucine helps the muscles to recover after physical exercise. Leucine is quickly broken down and converted to blood sugar in the body, making it the most effective BCAA for preventing muscle loss, according VitaminStuff.com. Leucine also aids in the healing of body tissues, including the bones, skin and muscles. It helps tissues recover from traumatic injury, severe stress and surgery. The body needs leucine for optimal growth of infants and for nitrogen balance in adults. It is used for regulation of blood sugar levels and energy levels, as well.
Function of Isoleucine
Like leucine, isoleucine is required for the growth of infants and for balance of nitrogen. It also maintains regular energy levels and stabilizes and regulates blood sugar levels. In addition to this, isoleucine is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which is a protein found in red blood cells, which supply oxygen for the body, states Vitamin-Supplements.org.
Deficiency
A deficiency in these amino acids is rare, but may be present in individuals who do not eat meat or obtain animal proteins from another source. Inadequate amounts of either leucine or isoleucine produces symptoms of low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. Because these amino acids regulate blood sugar levels, a deficiency can produce headaches, dizziness, confusion and irritability, explains VitaminStuff.com. If you are concerned about obtaining adequate amounts of leucine and isoleucine, speak with your physician so you may receive the best assessment and recommendation regarding supplementation.
Excess
Leucine does not produce any toxicity effects, but may contribute to pellagra, which is a deficiency in vitamin B-3, and may increase ammonia in the urine. A high intake of isoleucine in the diet does not produce any harmful effects, according to HealthVitaminsGuide.com, but you should use caution if you have liver or kidney disease. Patients may also experience increased urination.
Daily Intake and Sources
The amount of leucine needed daily is 16 mg per kg or 7 mg per pound of body weight. The daily dosage of isoleucine is 10 mg to 12 mg per kg or about 5 mg per pound of body weight. Natural sources of these essential molecules include meat, nuts, brown rice, eggs, diary, products, fish and beans. Soy is an excellent source because it contains all the essential amino acids, states "Soy: A Complete Source of Protein," an article from American Family Physicians.
Member Comments