Asparagine Amino Acid for Optimum Brain and Nerve Health

Asparagine is a non-essential amino acid that is naturally synthesized by the body, but including asparagine in your diet or as part of your supplement regime may support optimum general health. Named for the fact that it was first found in asparagus juice, asparagine was one of the first discovered amino acids.

The asparagine amino acid is vital in nerve and brain health as well as an important building block for proteins and muscle mass. It is an important aspect of metabolism because it aids in the removal of toxic ammonia from the body, and even though the asparagine amino acid is produced naturally in the body, it is recommended to also eat foods that contain high levels of asparagine to maintain nerve and cell health. These foods include:

• Dairy products
• Beef
• Poultry
• Eggs
• Fish
• Asparagus
• Potatoes
• Legumes
• Seeds and nuts
• Soy
• Whole grains

People who eat a well balanced diet and are generally healthy will usually produce sufficient levels of asparagine, but people with health problems or poor diets may consider asparagine and other amino acid supplements as part of their vitamin or health plan. As with any change in lifestyle, diet, or before adding supplements to your health regimen it is recommended that you speak with your health care provider. He or she will be able to help you determine if you need supplementation or diet changes to get enough of the nutrients, including asparagine, to maintain optimum health.