Amino acids form proteins, substances that are present in every part of your body, from tissues and organs to cells. As proteins age, they break down, needing replacement. Thus, you need to replenish your supply of amino acids continuously. Your body can make some of them. Others, classified as essential, come from foods or supplements. Methionine is one such essential amino acid. It has several functions besides making protein. Use the supplement under your doctor’s care.
Urine Acidifier
Incontinent adults and babies sometimes develop skin rashes from their urine. Methionine acidifies the urine, reducing its power to irritate the skin. MayoClinic.com also says the pills suppress some of the odor. Do not give methionine to a baby without a pediatrician's recommendation.
Acetaminophen Antidote
Acetaminophen is an over-the-counter and prescription pain reliever sold under a number of brands. Overdoses of this drug cause poisoning. According to MayoClinic.com, your doctor may administer methionine to treat acetaminophen intoxication. It is worth noting that methionine is not a home remedy for this type of poisoning. The condition requires urgent care. Only a qualified doctor can decide whether the amino acid therapy is the right treatment for your situation.
Nutrient Supplier
Methionine provides you sulfur and methyl. Your body uses the nutrients to transform foods into energy through metabolism. The substances also facilitate the use of antioxidants, which neutralize disease-causing molecules called free radicals.
Fat Processor
In collaboration with two other nutrients, inositol and choline, methionine helps your liver chemically to change fat-soluble toxins into water-soluble waste your body can flush.
Additional Claims
Michael Lam, M.D, M.P.H., author of several health tips books, says that methionine supplements may ease depression, stop inflammation, alleviate liver disease and relieve muscle pain. In addition, the nutrient regulates the amount of estrogen in the body, Dr. Lam says.
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