Health these days is often more important than money. This is due to the increasing number of people who are struggling with lifestyle diseases, stress, lack of time for proper nutrition or high levels of exhaustion caused by overwork. However, there are various dietary supplements that can effectively eliminate the unpleasant effects of living at a fast pace without taking care of one's own body. One such supplement is carnosine.
Carnosine was first isolated in the early 20th century by the Russian scientist Gulevich. His research was a milestone in providing the human body with one of the most crucial chemical compounds responsible for slowing down ageing, improving metabolism and preventing or reducing the symptoms of many diseases. Carnosine is incorporated into muscles and can make up to 0.5% of their weight. It is responsible for supplying them with the right amount of energy.
Existence of carnosine
Carnosine in its natural form is found in red meat. With one meal, we can supply the body with up to 250 mg of this ingredient. Due to the presence of the enzyme carnosinase in the human body, which has the effect of destroying carnosine, the amounts supplied by natural means are insufficient. For this reason, it is advisable to introduce an additional supplementation of 1,000 mg per day into your diet. By supplying the body with such a high dose of carnosine, the enzyme is effectively blocked, making the health compound more effective.
Effect of carnosine
Scientific research indicates that carnosine has a very positive effect on the proper functioning of proteins in the body. Carnosine has the effect of blocking or limiting certain chemical reactions that cause proteins in the human body to not function as they should. The effect of carnosine on blood pressure is also indicated. Adequate levels of the compound in the body are able to lead to the regulation of blood pressure that is too high.
Carnosine also has the effect of reducing glucose levels and has a very positive effect on the nervous system. HDL cholesterol (known as good cholesterol) oxidises and undergoes glycation in the human body. Carnosine protects this component from the above processes, keeping HDL levels at normal levels.
Properties of carnosine
Carnosine exhibits many positive properties that affect the proper functioning of the body. Among some of these we can highlight:
- effectively nullifies the processes of protein glycation and oxidation
- protects against the occurrence of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases
- causes a reduction in blood levels, thereby protecting against type 2 diabetes
- reduces the likelihood of cataracts
- by reducing oxidant levels it supports kidney function
- is a chelator, meaning it removes heavy metals from proteins, DNA and lipids
- has a significant effect on normal brain function
- there is a strong assumption, that normal levels of carnosine may block the occurrence of cancer cell metastasis
- promotes wound healing
- influences the regulation of increased blood pressure
- protects against cardiovascular disease
- protects against alcohol intoxication, Therefore, its supplementation before and after consuming a higher dose of alcohol is recommended
- effectively protects against cataracts and the use of drops improves visual acuity
Summary
Carnosine can confidently be called a long-lasting health compound. Research shows its significant impact on the human body and the processes that take place within it. Furthermore, carnosine protects proteins, lipids, DNA and indirectly human organs. At the same time, it is indicated to block the occurrence of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases and cardiovascular diseases, which are the bane of many people these days. Carnosine is also responsible for many other organs from the eyes to the liver, kidneys, heart, brain and the mechanical functioning of the bones.
The amount of carnosine taken naturally (with red meat) is too small to ensure its correct level in the human body. For this reason, it is advisable to reach for supplements containing this agent.