Serine
Also known as L-serine
Serine is a non-essential amino acid the body makes from other compounds. It is important for building proteins, cell membranes, and DNA, and it supports the nervous system.
Why it matters
What it does in your body
- Building block of protein
- Forms phospholipids for cell membranes
- Supports DNA and neurotransmitter synthesis
- Part of the folate one-carbon metabolism cycle
Intake guidance
How much you need
There is no daily requirement, because the body readily makes serine and dietary protein supplies more. A rare genetic inability to make it can cause neurological problems, but this is not a dietary issue for healthy people.
What affects it
What affects your intake
Body's own production
Serine is synthesized from the sugar-metabolism intermediate 3-phosphoglycerate, so it is not limited by diet.
Brain and nerve demand
The nervous system uses serine to make phospholipids and neurotransmitters, and a related form is L-serine.
Diet source
Soy, eggs, meat, dairy, and nuts all supply serine.
In practice
Good to know
Good to know: serine is being studied as an L-serine supplement for certain rare neurological conditions, but for the general public there is no reason to supplement it and no risk of dietary deficiency. It sits at the crossroads of protein, membrane, and DNA building.
Where to get it
Best food sources
The bottom line
Serine is a versatile, self-made amino acid with no dietary requirement for healthy people. Supplements are relevant only for specific medical conditions.
Track serine automatically
Serine is one of the 92 nutrients Vora reads from a photo of your meal, so you can see where you stand without weighing or logging by hand.
Sources and method
The classification, roles, and guidance on this page come from the references below, drawing on the Institute of Medicine (now the National Academies) Dietary Reference Intakes and reputable nutrition science.
- Institute of Medicine (2005), Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids
- National Library of Medicine, MedlinePlus
This page is for general education, not medical advice. Reference intakes are population averages for healthy people and do not replace guidance from your doctor or a registered dietitian, especially if you are pregnant, managing a health condition, or considering supplements.