
A nonessential amino acid, serine is needed for the metabolism of fats as well as fatty acids. It is highly concentrated in all cell membranes and aids in the production of immunoglobulins and antibodies and thus is important in supporting a healthy immune system.
SER, amino acid S, 2-amino-3-hydroxy-propanoic acid
Serine is an amino acid found in meats and dairy products, wheat gluten, peanuts as well as soy products.
Popup: Foods highest in Serine
An athlete may consume serine as part of his or her natural dietary nutrition plan to ensure efficient metabolism of fats. However, it’s not something that needs to be supplemented.
No deficiency conditions are known to exist.
Serine is a nonessential amino acid, which means it’s manufactured from other amino acids in the liver. It is essential for the metabolism of fats as well as fatty acids. It is highly concentrated in all cell membranes and aids in the production of immunoglobulins and antibodies and thus is important in supporting a healthy immune system.
The metabolism of serine leads to important production of choline and phospholipids, which are essential to form neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain) and to stabilize cell membranes.
Serine is a precursor to many other amino acids such as cysteine and methionine and is thought to work in conjunction with alanine and glycine to stabilize blood sugar.
Finally, serine is also used in cosmetics as a natural moistening agent.
While there’s no doubt serine is necessary for a wide range of body functions, it just isn’t necessary to look for it in a supplement. Why? Because it’s found abundantly in foods, and our bodies easily produce it.
Supplementation with serine is not necessary because it’s easily obtainable through foods and natural production in the body.
There is no specific optimal time to consume serine.
Serine requires B vitamins for production. It’s also used with other amino acids.
No known toxicity.
None reported.