Amino Acid & Protein Supplements

Amino acids are organic compounds that combine to form peptides and proteins. They’re known as the building blocks for all living things on earth. If one or more amino acids are not available in adequate quantities, the production of protein is weakened.

Health Benefits of Amino Acids

• Hormone production
• Muscle structure and growth
• Decreased muscle soreness
• Supports muscle recovery
• Nervous system function
• Vital organs function
• Cellular function

9 Essential Amino Acids

Out of the 21 amino acids your body uses, nine are essential: leucine, isoleucine, lysine, threonine, methionine, phenylalanine, valine, tryptophan, and histidine. All nine essential amino acids are necessary for basic health, and since the body can’t make them naturally, we must get them from food and supplements.

Amino acids, including the nine essential amino acids, are found in high-protein foods like meat, dairy, and eggs. Often times, athletes, individuals with dietary concerns, or those looking for an additional boost turn to amino acid supplements to give the body more of these essential building blocks.

Branched-Chain Amino Acids

Of the nine essential amino acids, three are branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs): isoleucine, leucine, and valine. Athletes often focus on amino acid supplements or protein supplements with BCAAs since they’re critical for muscle growth, fat burning, muscle recovery and muscle soreness.

BCAAs also support liver health.

To ensure you’re eating complete protein, an amino acid supplement or protein supplement can help.

Nonessential Amino Acids

• Asparagine
• Alanine
• Arginine
• Aspartic acid
• Cysteine
• Glutamic acid
• Glutamine
• Proline
• Glycine
• Tyrosine
• Serine

Essential Amino Acids

• Leucine: beneficial for skin, bone and tissue.
• Isoleucine: necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin.
• Lysine: component of muscle protein, needed in the synthesis of enzymes and hormones. It is also a precursor for L-carnitine, which is essential for healthy nervous system function.
• Threonine: required to produce collagen, elastin, and muscle tissue. Helps prevent fatty deposits in liver. Supports the immune system by enhancing the immune response.
• Methionine: an antioxidant. Helps breakdown fats promotes creatine production, which aids in building muscle.
• Phenylalanine: supports a healthy nervous system, memory, and learning.
• Valine: Essential for muscle development.
• Tryptophan: necessary for synthesis of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Supports sleep and promotes a calming effect due to its conversion to serotonin.
• Histidine: found in high concentrations in hemoglobin.