Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and a crucial part of a pet’s diet. Today we examine why Dl-Methionine, a form of the essential amino acid methionine, is in Pet Food.
What is Dl-Methionine?
Methionine is an essential amino acid that is important for many bodily functions. Dl-Methionine is a synthetic version of this amino acid. Methionine is primarily found in meat, fish, and dairy products.
Common names for Dl-Methionine
There aren’t many alternative names for DL-Methionine although Methionine is often referred to as DL-Methionine, L-2-amino-4-(methylthio) butyric acid, and L-Methionine.
Why is Dl-Methionine included in pet food?
Dl-Methionine added to pet food to ensure that the dog is receiving the essential nutrient. It is more often present in lower quality foods that use plant based proteins as part of their recipes and thus need the extra supplementation.
Common benefits or risks of Dl-Methionine
Dietary methionine is a potent antioxidant and an important amino acid for liver repair due to its ability to assist in the body’s detoxification process. Methionine helps prevent skin and nail problems.
DL-Methionine is often added to dog food to reduce the acid level in urine and is sometimes called the ‘grass saver’.
An overabundance of DL-Methionine can lead to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis). DL- Methionine might also make liver disease worse.
Pet diets that are rich in meat and fish will likely not need to be supplemented with DL-Methionine. It is far better to obtain this essential amino acid through whole foods than through artificially created forms.
Miscellaneous facts about Dl-Methionine
Because it reduces histamine release, methionine may be useful in some allergy cases.
Research shows that methionine supplementation may be helpful in treating Parkinson’s disease.
Sources and further reading
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/methionine-amino-acid-support-for-your-liver.html
http://www.herbs2000.com/amino_acids/methionine.htm
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