Serine is one of the non-essential amino acids found in the human body in the form of D-serine and L-serine.

It is named so because it was first extracted from silk protein and is one of the naturally occurring proteinogenic amino acids.

Reported Effects

1) Helps with the formation of muscle cells.

2) Provides energy.

3) Enhances the immune system.

Reported effects include:

Promotes the formation of muscle cells – Serine supplements are typically useful for the formation of muscle in the human body. This compound triggers the development of muscular tissue within the body and therefore is used by athletes and bodybuilders for the formation of healthy muscle fibers. It also helps absorb creatine within the body which is very important for the formation of muscle cells.

Helps with body metabolism – One of the major uses of serine is for proper functioning of various body organs as it contributes to fat metabolism, RNA and DNA formation, etc. It helps with the metabolism of pyrines and pyrimidines, both of which are essential for proper functioning of the body.

Promotes brain function – Serine has been observed to be very essential for neurotransmission activities within the brain. It is known to contribute in the formation of brain cells and for covering the nerves as protective myelin sheaths.

Provides energy – One of the key uses of serine is its ability to form RNA and DNA elements in the body which in turn contributes in providing the necessary energy. Bodybuilders and weightlifters in general use serine supplements as an energy booster.

Enhances functioning of the immune system – Serine is widely known as an essential element for the proper function of the immune system wjocj in turn develops better immunity against various potential diseases. It produces immunoglobins and essential amino acids both of which are required for better immunity.

Avoids depression – Serine is well known for its contribution towards the formation tryptophan which helps eliminate mood depressions.

Possible Dangers

Serine is known to be non-toxic and safe for the human body. However, it is recommended that people who wish to take serine supplements should consult an expert to understand any possible impacts of serine on different medical conditions.

FDA Approved?

Serine has partly been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and therefore only a few serine supplements are recommended by FDA with specific instructions.

Studies

Various studies have suggested that serine in general is capable of maintaining many of the body functions including RNA and DNA formation, muscle cell formation, central nervous system function, and so on.

One of the studies published in 1999 suggested that serine is a precursor to the formation of glycine and tryptophan and therefore can effectively regulate the condition of depression and feeling of fatigue.

A couple of studies published in the Journal of Rheumatology suggested that serine may be helpful in eliminating the symptoms of Fibromyalgia (FM). These studies proposed that patients suffering from FM were found to have serine deficiency along with other potential causes of developing the disease symptoms.

Certain studies mentioned in CPRU also determined that serine deficiency may have possible relationship with the development of CFIDS – condition related to neurological symptoms in human.

A study published in 1998 suggested that the L-serine form of serine can be used in the process of protein synthesis and therefore has reported the benefits of this compound in the human body.

Supplements using this ingredient:

1. Natural Factors PS

2. NOW Phosphatidyl Serine

3. MHP Cyclin-GF

4. MRM PS-100

5. John Scott’s Nitro GH

6. NOW Brain Elevate

7. LifeTime Brain Support Formula

8. MRM Neuro-Max II

9. Country Life Neuro-PS

10. John Scott’s Nitro Burn Extreme PM

Conclusion

Serine is found in many of our food sources including soybeans, lentils, peanuts, almonds, beef, milk, etc. Many individuals, including athletes and bodybuilders, take protein supplements to maintain proper function of their bodily activities.

Various commercial supplements use serine as the primary ingredient along with another important compound known as glycine.