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Threonine: Benefits and Foods High in Threonine

Discover Threonine benefits, top sources for vegans and carnivores and their Threonine content per 100g.

Luke Gartland avatar
Written by Luke Gartland
Updated over 10 months ago

What is Threonine?

Threonine is an essential amino acid necessary for protein synthesis, immune function, and maintaining the health of the central nervous system. It plays a significant role in the formation of collagen and elastin, two important proteins that support the skin and connective tissues. Threonine also supports liver function by preventing fat buildup in the liver.Because the body cannot produce Threonine, it must be obtained through the diet.

Benefits of Threonine

  • Protein Synthesis: Crucial for the production and maintenance of proteins in the body.

  • Immune Function: Supports the immune system by promoting the production of antibodies.

  • Skin and Connective Tissue Health: Involved in the formation of collagen and elastin, which are essential for skin and connective tissue health.

  • Liver Function: Helps prevent fat accumulation in the liver, supporting liver health.

  • Central Nervous System: Plays a role in maintaining the health of the central nervous system.

Daily Recommended Value (DRV) for Threonine

The DRV for Threonine is approximately 20 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. For an average adult weighing 70 kg, the daily requirement would be:

  • 20 mg x 70 kg = 1,400 mg per day

Foods High in Threonine

Here are some foods rich in Threonine along with their approximate Threonine content per 100 grams and the percentage of the daily recommended value (DRV) for a 70 kg individual (1,400 mg per day).

Top Sources of Threonine for Carnivores

  1. Turkey Breast

    • Threonine content: 1,650 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 118%

  2. Chicken Breast

    • Threonine content: 1,490 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 106%

  3. Lean Beef

    • Threonine content: 1,460 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 104%

  4. Pork

    • Threonine content: 1,330 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 95%

  5. Tuna

    • Threonine content: 1,280 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 91%

Top Sources of Threonine for Vegans

  1. Spirulina

    • Threonine content: 2,180 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 156%

  2. Soy Protein Isolate

    • Threonine content: 2,100 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 150%

  3. Soybeans

    • Threonine content: 1,450 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 104%

  4. Lentils

    • Threonine content: 1,190 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 85%

  5. Chickpeas

    • Threonine content: 1,190 mg per 100g

    • % of Daily Need: 85%

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