Uridine
What is it?
Uridine is a nucleotide that contains uracil and forms part of many structures, for example RNA, the molecule that transports our genetic material. Within the classification of nucleotides uridine, is considered a pyrimidine base, and its metabolism and elimination produce urea, which is water-soluble, rather than uric acid.
Uridine supplementation
Nucleotides should be supplemented in the form of free mononucleotides, and only ones that are pyrimidine bases (cytidine and uridine), to avoid interactions with diseases such as gout (elevated uric acid levels).
Role in metabolism
Pyrimidine nucleotides like cytidine and uridine stabilize cell membranes, stimulate axon growth, and increase synthesis of acetylcholine. They assist in the prevention and treatment of neurological problems and strengthen cognitive abilities, including memory. Cytidine and uridine are decisive for synthesis of structural components of nerve cells and for nerve regeneration, improving the quality of myelin, axons, connections, and neurological networks.
Moreover, uridine is important for phospholipid synthesis, increases phosphatidylcholine synthesis in the brain, and works together with other basic micronutrients like choline and DHA.
Foods with uridine
Nucleotides are present naturally in foods of both animal and plant origin, and they are found in the form of free nucleotides and nucleic acids. Milk, eggs, and fruits contain scant amounts, however meats, organ meats, and seeds contain nucleotides in larger amounts.
