When you consume protein, your body breaks it into its individual amino acids, which are resorbed for use within your body. Among these is cysteine, an amino acid found in many protein-rich foods. Upon digestion, cysteine is converted into disease-fighting antioxidants. Eating foods rich in cysteine may therefore increase the levels of antioxidants in your body, helping to prevent the development of disease.
Poultry
One food high in cysteine is poultry. Both chicken or turkey meats provide a rich source of complete protein, containing every amino acid, including cysteine. Poultry also has the benefit of providing this protein without much fat content, helping you reach your recommended intake of protein without consuming large amounts harmful saturated fats. When choosing poultry, select fresh or frozen cuts of meat instead of processed poultry products, which may contain added sodium, preservatives or even sugar that lower the foods' nutritional value.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is another healthy source of cysteine. Oatmeal may be purchased as rolled oats, where each oat has been pressed into a flattened flake, or steel cut oats, where the oat kernel is chopped prior to packaging. In addition to its protein and cysteine content, oatmeal also serves as a source of other nutrients, such as dietary fiber. Consuming foods that contain dietary fiber, like oatmeal, has a number of health benefits for the digestive system, and it lowers high blood sugar and cholesterol levels as well. Incorporate oatmeal into your diet as a filling breakfast or as a topping for fruit or yogurt.
Dairy Products
Dairy products, including milk, cream, yogurt, cheese and ice cream, all contain cysteine. Milk is a complete protein, providing a source of all 20 amino acids, including cysteine. In addition, dairy products serve as a source of carbohydrates, which your body can use for energy throughout the day. When selecting dairy products with the goal of consuming cysteine, choose foods with a high protein-to-fat radio, such as low-fat milk, while avoiding higher-fat dairy products like ice cream or butter. While dairy products make up part of a balanced and healthy diet, the Harvard School of Public Health recommends limiting your intake to one or two daily servings.
