Benefits of RNA Supplements
You’ve heard of DNA, the famous double helix that carries the instructions our bodies and cells use to stay alive and reproduce. But have you heard of RNA? RNA, also known as ribonucleic acid, is the biological forerunner to DNA that helps our bodies build proteins, regulate gene expression through methylation, and translate DNA into physical structures. Because of its important role in managing protein synthesis and the aging process, RNA is an increasingly popular supplement. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of RNA supplements as well as uses, side effects, and where to buy.
What is RNA?
Like DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), RNA is a nucleic acid that codes and decodes genetic information. In fact, in some organisms, RNA takes the place of DNA, and it’s believed that DNA evolved from RNA.
The major difference between RNA and DNA occurs on the molecular level. The central sugar that forms the RNA molecule is ribose, while DNA is built around deoxyribose.
As a result, most RNA molecules form a single helix (imagine a stretch of DNA cut in half vertically), although there are specialized forms of RNA that are straight, twisted, or circular. Our cells contain about five times as much RNA as DNA.
What are the types of RNA?
There are many different kinds of RNA in the human body. Each type serves a different function. The most important (and best understood) are mRNA, rRNA, and tRNA.
mRNA
mRNA, also known as messenger RNA, is responsible for genetic transcription. In our cells, the blueprints for protein construction are housed within the nucleus (the cell’s “brain”) in the form of DNA. This DNA acts as the cell’s “master copy” of all cellular blueprints and instructions.
To move these instructions safely from the nucleus out into the surrounding cytoplasm where proteins are constructed, mRNA is used. First, the mRNA copies a short section of DNA in the nucleus. Then, the mRNA moves out into the cytoplasm where it is used as an instruction manual to build new proteins.
rRNA
rRNA, or ribosomal RNA, are the main component of a cell’s ribosomes (the structures within the cell that actually construct proteins and amino acid chains). Ribosomes contain about 80% of a cell’s total RNA. Specialized rRNA molecules are responsible for reading the mRNA’s instructions and assembling the required protein with the help of tRNA.
tRNA
tRNA, “transfer RNA,” molecules are responsible for selecting the correct amino acids for protein synthesis and transporting them into the ribosome where rRNA assembles them into a functional protein according to the mRNA’s instructions.
RNA Supplement Uses
Due to RNA’s central role in building proteins, RNA supplements are often used to help speed cell repair and healing after surgery or injury. RNA supplements are also sometimes used to improve memory and cognition, improve mood and mental health, boost energy, and slow down the aging process. It can also be used to support the immune system.
RNA supplements provide the essential nucleotides our body uses to construct new RNA molecules. While our body can build new nucleotides from amino acids, this process requires a significant amount of energy.
However, our body can also use existing nucleotides present in the food we eat and supplements we take. This conserves energy, allowing our bodies to devote more resources to cellular repair and reproduction, which is preferable, especially in parts of the body which require a lot of nucleotides to function, like our immune system.
Benefits of RNA Supplements
Top benefits of RNA supplements may include:
- Healing and recovery
- Immune system support
- Cell repair and protein synthesis
- Improved memory and cognition
- Better mood
- Improved Energy
RNA Supplement Side Effects
RNA supplements are likely safe when taken in the same amounts present in food. Combinations of RNA, omega-3 fatty-acids, and L-arginine are safe for most people. However, more research is required. RNA supplements are not recommended for individuals who are pregnant or nursing.
Where to Buy RNA Supplements?
We offer a selection of RNA supplements in our shop.
Standard Process Ribonucleic Acid
Looking for a 100% organic RNA supplement specially-formulated to boost cell replication, growth, and protein synthesis? Standard Process Ribonucleic Acid uses 100% naturally-sourced RNA derived from yeast to provide your body with critical nucleotides used in cell reproduction and protein synthesis.
With 270mg of high-quality ribonucleic acid (RNA) and magnesium citrate in every dose, Standard Process Ribonucleic Acid delivers optimal nutrition. Get it here in our online shop.
Standard Process Congaplex
Looking to improve your immune system? Standard Process Congaplex combines the immunity-boosting power of RNA with Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Calcium, and Magnesium derived from 100% organic, whole food ingredients. That includes a proprietary blend of organic carrot, veal bone, sweet potato, shiitake mushroom, and reishi. Buy it now in our shop.
