Histidine

Histidine was first isolated from protein in 1896 and its structure was clarified by chemical synthesis in 1911. The side chains of histidine can be both acidic and basic. Histidine can be obtained from the hydrolysis of many proteins; it is considered conditionally essential for adults, but essential for children and people with chronic kidney failure. Histidine is involved in the synthesis of haemoglobin (blood pigment) in red blood cells. It is required as a direct precursor for the formation of histamine, which has many functions in the body. For example, it contributes to the contraction of the intestines, uterus, bronchi and blood vessels and plays a role in allergic inflammation. Histidine can have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. In inflammatory processes and allergies, it can scavenge free radicals and render them harmless. Histidine contributes to a well-functioning immune system and supports the activity of white blood cells. Histidine is also a structural part of various enzymes involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids. It is an important source of carbon atoms in the formation of purines, which in turn contribute to the generation of nucleic and uric acids. Histidine also plays an important role in the absorption and utilization of zinc. The trace element zinc is generally better absorbed from meat, as it is often bound to histidine. This compound facilitates the transport of zinc through the intestinal wall and improves the subsequent utilization of zinc.

The main sources of histidine

Histidine is found in plant and animal foods, with larger amounts found in meat and some fish.

Some histidine-rich foods contain the following per 100 grams

Typical groups for an increased histidine requirement

Some stresses and illnesses can lead to an increased need for histidine. Supplements can help to improve the supply accordingly.

• Zinc deficiency
• In certain forms of anemia
• for rheumatoid arthritis
• in cases of severe stress
• chronic illnesses, injuries, operations
• chronic kidney failure.

When there is a lack of histidine in the body

In anemia, an insufficient supply of histidine can inhibit the formation of haemoglobin; in certain forms of the disease, supplementation with histidine can help. In rheumatoid arthritis, histidine is increasingly broken down, which is reflected in low histidine levels in the blood and synovial fluid. The lower the levels are there, the more severe the pain and stiffness. Histidine supplements can help to reduce inflammation and pain, especially in serious conditions.

Safety and side effects

Histidine may be safe and harmless for most people. Doses of up to four grams of histidine daily have no known side effects in adults. It should be taken on an empty stomach if possible, as histidine is then better absorbed.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough is known about the safety of histidine during pregnancy and lactation. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid histidine to be on the safe side.

Folic acid deficiency: If you suffer from a folic acid deficiency, you should not use histidine as it can cause an unwanted build-up of a chemical called formiminoglutamic acid in the body.

The daily requirement of histidine

Histidine can be synthesized in small amounts by the body, it can be obtained from the hydrolysis of many proteins. 8 to 12 milligrams of histidine per kilogram of body weight is recommended. According to this, the daily requirement of adults is between 0.5 and 1 gram of histidine.