Carnosine

Carnosine is an amino acid that is formed when a beta-alanine molecule and a histidine molecule join together. Stored in your brain, heart, and muscles, it protects your body from glycation – a process which results in free radicals in your body and causes signs of aging. Do not confuse this nutrient with the similar-sounding amino acid carnitine.

Functions of Carnosine in Your Body
• Binds metal ions that cause tissue damage
• Blocks the aging effects of glycation
• Helps maintain memory
• Is an antioxidant
• Protects muscle tissue from lactic acid
• Regulates levels of copper and zinc

Diseases/Disorders that can be treated with carnosine
Aging, Alzheimer’s disease, Atherosclerosis, Autism, Brain injury, Cataracts, Diabetes mellitus, Hypertension, Stroke, and Wound healing.

Cysteine

Cysteine is a nonessential amino acid that is made in your liver. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is the most frequently used form of cysteine. It has many important functions, including helping synthesize protein and aiding your body in making the strong antioxidant glutathione. The amino acid cystine is the stable form of cysteine. The conversion of cysteine into cystine occurs as your body requires it.

Functions of Cysteine in your body
• Aids in cancer protection (by stimulating natural killer cells)
• Aids in healing after surgery
• Boosts your immune system
• Breaks down homocysteine
• Helps destroy acetaldehyde and free radicals produced by smoking and drinking
• Helps protect against heart disease
• Involved in communication between cells
• Is an antioxidant
• Prevents hair loss
• Promotes hair growth
• Promotes metabolism of fats and production of muscle
• Reduces inflammation

5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)
A by-product of tryptophan, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a nonessential amino acid that increases the body’s level of serotonin. Most of the problems it has been marketed to help – such as depression, sleeplessness, and night terrors – can occur because of low levels of serotonin. Most people are not deficient in 5-HTP and do not need take supplements.

Side effects and contraindications
If you are taking an SSRI or another antidepressant, you should not take 5-HTP. Consult your healthcare provider before taking 5-HTP if you are diabetic or have high blood pressure, heart disease, or an auto-immune disorder.

Diseases/Disorders that can be treated with 5-HTP
Addiction, Anxiety, Carbohydrate cravings, Chronic headaches, Depression, Fibromyalgia, Hyperactivity, Insomnia, Mood disorders, Obesity, Obsessive compulsive disorder, Pain management, Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and Stress.