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Reference Guide
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Kynurenine
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Kynurenine

What's 
Kynurenine
?
Kynurenine is a fascinating substance that your body produces as it breaks down an essential amino acid called tryptophan, which you get from your diet, especially from protein-rich foods. This process is a part of your body's normal metabolism, the way it uses food to create energy. Kynurenine is like a stepping stone in a pathway that leads to the creation of several important compounds, including a molecule called NAD+, which is vital for energy production and DNA repair in your cells. It's also a precursor to several bioactive metabolites, which have various roles in the body, including regulating immune response and inflammation. In a nutshell, kynurenine is a key player in your body's metabolic orchestra, contributing to your overall health and well-being.
If Your Levels Are High
High levels of kynurenine in your body could indicate that your body is breaking down more tryptophan than usual. This could be due to a high-protein diet or certain medications that affect tryptophan metabolism. It could also be a sign of stress or inflammation in the body, as the immune system can trigger increased tryptophan breakdown during these times. Additionally, certain health conditions, such as cancer or autoimmune diseases, can also cause an increase in kynurenine production. On the other hand, high kynurenine levels could also mean your body is producing more NAD+, a molecule crucial for energy production and DNA repair. This could be a positive sign, indicating that your cells are actively repairing themselves. However, it's important to note that while kynurenine is a vital part of our body's metabolism, too much of it can potentially lead to health issues, as some of its byproducts can be harmful in large amounts.
Symptoms of High Levels
Symptoms of high levels of kynurenine could include fatigue, mood changes, and digestive issues.
If Your Levels are Low
Low levels of kynurenine could mean that your body isn't breaking down tryptophan, a nutrient from your food, as efficiently as it should. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as a diet low in protein, certain medications, or specific health conditions that affect metabolism. Kynurenine is important because it helps create energy and repair DNA in your cells. It also helps control inflammation and immune response in your body. So, if your kynurenine levels are low, it could potentially impact these processes.
Symptoms of Low Levels
Symptoms of low levels of kynurenine could potentially include fatigue, difficulty recovering from physical exertion, or increased susceptibility to infections due to a weakened immune response.

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