Cystine amino acid information page

Cystine is a crystalline, sulfur-containing amino acid, formed from two molecules of the amino acid cysteine. It can be converted to cysteine by reduction and was discovered in 1810 but was not recognized as a component of proteins until 1899, when it was isolated from animal horn – it is particularly abundant in skeletal and connective tissues, hair and digestive enzymes.

The steps followed in the formation of cystine and cysteine, is from methionine to cystathionine and then to cysteine to cystine. For more information please see cysteine as well.

on this page

• Cystine is required for
• Deficiency of cystine
• Dosage
• Toxicity and symptoms of high intake
• Cystine found in the following Zest for Life products

Cystine is required for

Required for proper vitamin B6 utilization and is also helpful in the healing of burns and wounds, breaking down mucus deposits in illnesses such as bronchitis as well as cystic fibrosis.

Cysteine also assists in the supply of insulin to the pancreas, which is needed for the assimilation of sugars and starches.

It increases the level of glutathione in the lungs, liver, kidneys and bone marrow, and this may have an anti-aging effect on the body by reducing age-spots etc.

It has been shown as a detoxification agent to protect the body against damage of alcohol and cigarette smoking, and may be effective in preventing hangovers, as well as preventing liver and brain damage.

Deficiency of cystine

In chronic diseases it appears that the formation of cysteine from methionine is prevented, resulting in a deficiency.

Dosage

The dosage listed is the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), but be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

People suffering from diabetes should be careful when taking supplementation, as it could inactivate insulin.

Cystine found in the following Zest for Life products

• None.

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Our products

	Adaptogens. Balance and help us cope with stresses.
	Anti-aging supplement. Helps to fight the signs and symptoms of ageing.
	Antioxidants. Fight ageing, degenerative disease and free radicals.
	Apple cider vinegar capsules with Gotu Kola. The trusted folk remedy.
	BodyGuard. Immune boost formula.
	Enzymes. Required for metabolic processes.
	Millenium 2000. Slimming capsules to make dieting easy.
	OystaCal. The best organic and bio-available calcium.
	Phytosterols. Plant chemicals to boost your system.
	Hair, Skin and Nail Formula. The best formula for improving your looks.
	Vitalyze. Your high-energy boost to live life with vigor and stress-buster.
	Vuka 2000. The most advanced sexual supplement.

Nutritional information

Here are some information page on which you can read more about a specific nutrient and the role it plays in our general well-being. Please note - we do not use or sell all of these compounds but include the information for the benefit of our clients and visitors. To visit our selection of vitamin products please click here.