Made up of the amino acids alanine and histidine, carnosine is present in several body tissues including heart muscle, skeletal muscle, and the brain.
Although the precise biological role of carnosine has yet to be determined, several studies conducted on animals have identified carnosine’s specialized and strong antioxidant properties, and have discovered that it encourages wound healing, protects against radiation and oxidatitve damage, and enhances the functions of the heart. Because of its protective qualities, carnosine has been described by some as the water-soluble equivalent of vitamin E. Other proposed functions of carnosine include actions as a modulator of enzyme activities, a neurotransmitter or chemical messenger in the nervous system, and a chelator of heavy metals (i.e., a substance that possibly reduces levels of toxicity by connecting heavy metals).
by the Harvard School of Public Health
It has been asked by millions of people “If you eat a healthy diet, do you need to take vitamins?” Not very long ago, the common answer from most experts and professionals would have been an emphatic "no". However, today there's quite a bit of evidence that taking a daily multivitamin makes good sense for most adults.
by the Mayoclinic Staff
Given the popularity and availability of “high potency” amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes and herbs, it might seem like dietary supplements could replace food as a source of the nutrients the body requires. However, this is not the case.
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