It is alpha amino beta methylvaleric acid. It is necessary and is not synthesize in the body. This amino acid is synthesized in the microorganism.
Metabolic degradation of isoleucine in the animal body is the final formation of acetyl CoA and propionyl CoA. The acetyl CoA may ultimately give increase to acetoacetyl CoA whereas the propionyl CoA gives increase to glucose. So the isoleucine is both ketogenic and antiketogenic. This amino acid cannot be manufactured in the body and requirements to be supplied in the diet and was first isolated in 1904 from fibrin.
Sources of isoleucine
It is present in almonds, meat, cashews, chicken, eggs, fish, lentils, liver etc
Benefits of isoleucine
It helps in the creation of energy in the body and has been found experimentally to decrease twitching and tremors in animals.
It is also used as supplements for body building.
Isoleucine, together with the other 2 branched chain amino acids leucine and valine helps in the muscle recovery later than physical exercise.
It is also required for the formation of hemoglobin as well as assisting with regulation of blood sugar levels as well as energy levels. It is also involved in blood clot creation.
Deficiency symptoms of isoleucine
Deficiency of isoleucine is established in people whose diet is deficient in dietary protein. The symptoms may include headaches, depression, dizziness, fatigue, confusion as well as irritability.
Symptoms of deficiency may look like the symptoms of hypoglycemia. This nutrient has also been found to be deficient in people with mental and physical disorders, but it is not confirmed as yet.
Symptoms of high intake
Higher intakes of isoleucine does not create any harmful effects for most of people but those with kidney or liver disease should not eat high intakes of amino acids without medical recommend.
People ingesting superior amounts of isoleucine report elevated urination.
When more may be required
Athletes who are busy in strenuous activity under great pressure and at high altitude need high intake of vitamin.
Number of people gets sufficient isoleucine from their diet, although a number of individuals do supplement their diet with about 650 - 700 mg of isoleucine per day, or worked out to 10 to 12 mg per kg of body weight per day.
If one is taking a supplement of isoleucine, he should take it in balance with the other 2 branched chain amino acids leucine and valine in the formula of 2mg of leucine and valine for each 1mg of isoleucine.