Threonine is an essential amino acid, meaning your body cannot make it and you must get it from food or supplements. It is used to build proteins and support normal metabolism.

What are the main benefits of threonine?

Threonine supports protein synthesis and is involved in collagen and elastin formation for connective tissues. It also helps support immune function and normal liver metabolism.

What foods are high in threonine?

Threonine is found in protein-rich foods such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, legumes, soy foods, nuts, and seeds. A varied diet with adequate protein typically provides threonine.

How much threonine should I take?

Supplemental threonine is commonly taken in the range of 500–4000 mg per day. Needs vary by diet and health status, so consider medical guidance if you have conditions affecting protein metabolism.

Who should be cautious with threonine supplements?

People with kidney or liver disease, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and anyone taking medications affecting amino acid metabolism should consult a clinician before supplementing. Avoid exceeding label directions unless advised by a professional.

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Threonine

Moderate study situation·7/10

A higher score indicates better study conditions, but not necessarily effectiveness.

Threonine is an essential amino acid important for tissue repair, immune function, and liver health.

Tissue Repair Essential Nutrient Immune Booster Skin Health Liver Health

dose range

500–4000 mg

Once or divided doses with meals.

Consumption

Take with food for best absorption; most needs are met through a balanced diet.

Not fat-soluble.

Best time

Best taken with meals.

Description

Threonine is one of the nine essential amino acids, meaning it must be acquired from the diet. It is integral to protein synthesis, collagen and elastin production, immune function, and healthy metabolism.

benefits

Main effects with level of evidence

Moderate

Note on evidence

Benefits are established for protein synthesis, immune support, and tissue repair, but evidence for other uses is limited.

Supports tissue repair and collagen formation

Moderate

Threonine is needed for synthesis of collagen and elastin, supporting healthy skin and connective tissues.

Particularly relevant for: General · Those recovering from injuries · Older adults

NIH · NIH ODS Amino Acids Fact Sheet PubMed2 · Collagen synthesis and threonine

Promotes immune function

Moderate

Adequate threonine intake is important for optimal immune response and antibody production, particularly via supporting the thymus and mucosal immune barriers.

Particularly relevant for: General · Immunocompromised · Athletes

NIH · NIH ODS Amino Acids Fact Sheet PubMed1 · Journal of Nutrition - Threonine and immunity

Assists fat metabolism and liver health

Limited

Threonine is involved in lipid metabolism via conversion to glycine and serine, supporting hepatic function and helping prevent fat accumulation in the liver.

Particularly relevant for: General · Individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

NIH · NIH ODS Amino Acids Fact Sheet

Safety & Information

Important safety information & known risks

For educational purposes only • not medical advice

Threonine is generally safe when consumed in dietary amounts; excessive supplementation may cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects.

warning notices

High doses can cause nausea and diarrhea, especially at doses >4 g/day.
Contraindicated in those with threonine metabolism disorders (e.g., MSUD).
Use with caution if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Avoid supplemental threonine if you have a known threonine metabolism disorder.
Use only under medical supervision if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Monitor for gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhea) at high supplement doses.

Known interactions with medications

May interact with medications affecting amino acid metabolism; consult physician before use if on such medication.

Contraindications / special precautions

Metabolic disorders of threonine metabolism
Pregnancy and breastfeeding unless approved by a clinician

mechanisms of action

Brief explanations of how it works

Amino acid for protein synthesis

Threonine is incorporated into proteins throughout the body, enabling growth and tissue repair.

NIH · NIH ODS Amino Acids Fact Sheet

Collagen and elastin precursor

Acts as a critical substrate for the formation of structural proteins in connective tissues, such as skin and tendons.

PubMed2 · Collagen synthesis and threonine

Immune system maintenance

Necessary for synthesis of antibodies and mucins, supporting mucosal and systemic immunity.

PubMed1 · Journal of Nutrition - Threonine and immunity

Liver and fat metabolism

Threonine metabolism in the liver contributes to the production of glycine and serine, supporting detoxification and preventing fatty liver.

NIH · NIH ODS Amino Acids Fact Sheet

Sources & References

Primary literature and reviews on which these statements are based

4 sources

NIH

NIH ODS Amino Acids Fact Sheet

Comprehensive NIH health professional resource.

PubMed1

Journal of Nutrition - Threonine and immunity

Effects of threonine deficiency on mucin and immunity.

PubMed2

Collagen synthesis and threonine

Threonine's role in fibroblast collagen production.

WebMD

WebMD - Threonine overview

General clinical information and dosing.

Last updated: February 1, 2026

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.