Alanine

was first discovered in silk proteins in 1875. Silk consists of 30 percent alanine and contributes to its special fiber strength and flexibility. Alanine is not essential for humans as it can be produced from pyruvic acid during the breakdown of carbohydrates. Only the L-form is involved in the biosynthesis of proteins. Alanine plays an important role in the metabolic processes between the muscles and the liver. The muscles store the largest amounts of proteins in the body. In the event of hunger or an increased need for protein, large amounts of protein can be broken down and released from these stores. These can be converted to glucose in the liver. If there is a tendency to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), there may be a lack of alanine. This stimulates the formation of glucagon, which can raise the blood sugar level as an antagonist of insulin. Alanine is also present in the prostate fluid and can possibly support the function of the prostate and reduce pathological symptoms (benign prostatic hyperplasia). Meat and poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products contain plenty of alanine, as do some plants with a high protein content. Deficiencies are only to be expected with a generally high protein deficiency. There are no known side effects from taking alanine. Patients with liver or kidney disease should not take high doses without therapeutic supervision.