Carnosine is a molecule in the body which is formed by the chemical combination of two amino acids, beta-alanine and histidine. It occurs naturally among humans and is predominant in the brain and muscle cells. It plays an important role in the proper development and function of the skeletal muscles, heart, liver, kidneys, brain and other organs. Carnosine has been shown also to have rejuvenating and antioxidant effects on cellular, protein, lipid and DNA structures. It also protects these structures from free radical damage. Let us then take a look at carnosine supplements for anti-aging.
Fact #1: Anti Aging Benefits of Carnosine
Carnosine supplements are considered anti-aging supplements due to their antioxidant properties and their effect on advance glycosylation end-products, or AGEs. AGEs are abnormal proteins in the body that have been oxidized and damaged. Aging results in the formation of AGEs and AGEs have been associated in the development of many age-related diseases. Studies have found that carnosine can prevent AGEs in the body and help extend the life span of cells thus slowdown the aging process.
Fact #2: Prevention of Diabetic Complication
Carnosine is known to prevent and treat diabetic complications like diabetic neuropathy, cataracts and kidney damage. Carnosine is useful because of its ability to inhibit the chemical processes that lead to the formation of AGEs which are known to be the cause of secondary diabetic complications. Also, carnosine is found to minimize diabetic complications without causing any toxic side effects.
Fact #3: Additional Purported Uses
Because of its antioxidant properties and its effects on AGEs, carnosine supplements can be used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and the prevention of atherosclerosis and joint inflammation, according to “Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database.” It can also bind to toxic heavy metals thus safely removing them from the body. According to Marios Kyriazis, M.D., carnosine also helps prevent cancer, boosts the immune system, reduces inflammation, increases libido, promotes wound and post surgical healing, protectd against radiation damage, prevents and treats gastric ulcers and many more.
Fact #4: Sources of Carnosine
Carnosine is abundantly present in meat. According to the authors of Food Chemistry, Belits, Grosh and Sheiberle, beef contains 1,500 mg of carnosine per pound, poultry and pork contain 2,000mg of carnosine per pound. The average daily carnosine intake of a persone ranges from 50-250mg but it depends on the amount of beef, poultry, pork and fish a person consumes.
Fish is another source of carnosine. Due to the recent push to eliminate meat consumption and with the increasing number of people eating vegetables, carnosine supplement is being recommended. It is also noted that the amount of carnosine in the body lowers as a person ages. It is therefore important to make sure that adequate carosine consumption either from food and supplements for older individuals.
Fact #5: Dosage of Carnosine Supplements
A carnosine supplement generally supplies the body with 100-300 mg of carnosine said Murray. The recommended daily intake according to Vital Health Zone should be 300-600 mg. Carnosine supplements are primarily taken due to its antioxidant and anti-aging properties said Supplement News.
After knowing these facts about carnosine supplements for anti-aging, it is about time to contemplate on whether to take one. Seeking expert advice is recommended.
