Asparagine (WBC)

How it gets depleted:

Asparagine deficiency is not likely due to its endogenous synthesis and ubiquitous presence in both plant and animal foods.

Clinical manifestations of depletion:

There are no known deficiency symptoms of asparagine that have been well reported or well studied, but possible symptoms of asparagine depletion could include fatigue or cognitive decline in adults.

Food sources:

Dietary sources of asparagine include: dairy, whey, beef, poultry, eggs, fish, seafood, asparagus, licorice root, legumes, nuts, seeds, soy, and grains.

Supplement options:

There is currently no established RDA, AI, or UL for asparagine. Asparagine is rarely supplemented directly, due to its endogenous production in the body, but could be indirectly supplemented through glutamine.

Asparagine is a non-essential amino acid required for development and function of the brain. Asparagine can be synthesized from glutamine and aspartate. Asparagine is also required for DNA and RNA synthesis and removal of the cellular waste product ammonia.