L Histidine is an amino acid that the body cannot produce itself, and is therefore required from food or as a dietary supplement. L Histidine is needed for a variety of reasons, including the production of histamine, maintaining a healthy heart and circulatory system, and improving the immune system response to infection. L Histidine is required by the body to produce a number of other enzymes including Gastrin. Gastrin aids the effective digestive process and releases more nutrients from our food including vitamins and minerals. One of the most important roles that L Histidine plays in the body is to ensure the balance of minerals in the blood, including metals such as zinc and iron, are kept at the correct levels. Histidine binds with zinc and carries it to the cells where it is most required and allows for enhanced cell function. People who do not take a sufficient amount of L Histidine in their diet are often prone to zinc deficiency, which can lead to low energy levels and a weakened immune system. As its name suggests, L Histidine is closely related to histamine, the chemical that the body produces in response to infection. Although histamine causes inflammation during injuries and in the response to allergens in hay fever, it plays a vital role in maintaining our resistance to infection. Although L Histidine is an essential amino acid, it is not produced naturally in the body, and must be absorbed from foods. It can be found in meat, fish, and dairy products in small amounts. Vegetarians in particular will need to take a supplement that includes L Histidine, as they will struggle to get the correct amount from a diet that is low in animal products.
