Amino acids are organic compounds containing amine (-NH2) and carboxyl (-COOH) functional groups, along with a side chain (R group) specific to each amino acid. The key elements of an amino acid are carbon (C), hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), and nitrogen (N), although other elements are found in the side chains of certain amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.
There are 2 groups of amino acids, essential and non-essential. Out of the twenty amino acids nine are considered essential the body cannot manufacture them, they must come from diet. The body can manufacture the non-essential amino acids from the by-products of carbohydrate metabolism.
This is a list of the Non-Essential Amino Acids
- Alanine – Alanine helps to provide energy to muscle tissues, the brain and CNS (Central nervous system). It aids in antibody production that helps to enhance the immune system. Alanine also helps metabolize sugars and organic acids.
- Arginine – Arginine promotes healing in the body through hormone regulation. It also aids in liver regeneration. Arginine helps the body to release growth hormones for muscle growth and repairing tissues. It helps to improve immune system responses to bacteria, viruses and tumour cells.
- Aspartic Acid (Asparagine) – Ammonia is toxic to the CNS (Central nervous system) Aspartic Acid aids in the excretion of this toxin. It can help increase resistance to fatigue and increase endurance.
- Cysteine – Cysteine aids in slowing the aging process, it helps to fight free radicals and neutralizes toxins. It helps protein synthesis and antioxidant protection against radiation and pollution. It is an essential part of skin recovery from cuts and burns or any type of breakage in the skin layers.
- Glycine – Glycine is an important part of hormone production in strengthening the immune system.
- Glutamic Acid (Glutamine) – Glutamic acid helps the body to regulate sugar cravings, control alcoholism and schizophrenia. It’s an important factor in improving mental functions, it also aids in the healing of ulcers and reduces fatigue.
- Taurine – Taurine is key in Controlling biochemical changes responsible for the aging process. It aids in the excretion of free radicals. Taurine stabilizes membrane excitability in the control of epileptic seizures.
- Proline – Proline strengthens heart muscles and promotes proper joint and tendon function.
- Serine – The liver and muscles use serine as a storage source of glucose for antibody production. It enhances the immune system, synthesizes fatty acids that cover around nerve fibers (insulator).
- Tyrosine – Phenylalanine is the precursor to tyrosine but both are considered the precursors of catecholamines (adrenaline, dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine and tyramine). Tyrosine is a key component in the production of skin and neuromelanin. Tyrosine transmission of nerve impulses to the brain; fights depression; improves memory and mental alertness.
This is a list of the essential Amino Acids
- Histidine – Histidine is a component of haemoglobin (red blood cells) used by the body to fight against rheumatoid arthritis, allergic diseases, ulcers & anemia. A deficiency of histidine may cause issue with hearing.
- Isoleucine and Leucine – Both of these amino acids provide manufacturing components for essential biochemicals the body uses to utilize the production of energy and upper brain stimulants.
- Lysine – Lysine is key in the proper absorption of calcium. It helps to form collagen (component of bone, cartilage and connective tissues). It also aids in the production of antibodies, hormones & enzymes. Lysine may be effective against herpes by improving the balance of nutrients that reduce viral growth. A deficiency may result in tiredness, inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, , hair loss, anaemia & reproductive problems.
- Methionine – Methionine lowers cholesterol by increasing the liver’s production of lecithin and reduces fat deposits in the liver. It can also help prevent disorders of the hair, skin and nails. It protects the kidneys and acts as a natural detox agent for heavy metals. Methionine regulates the formation of ammonia and creates ammonia-free urine thereby reducing bladder irritation. It also helps in healthy hair growth.
- Phenylalanine – Phenylalanine plays a key role in the production of Norepinephrine, which is used for the transmission of signals between nerve cells and the brain. It helps regulates hunger, acts as an antidepressant and improves memory and mental alertness.
- Threonine – Threonine promotes efficient functionality of the digestive system and metabolism. It is a component of collagen, Elastin, and enamel protein and helps to reduce liver fat deposits.
- Tryptophan – Tryptophan reduces the risk of cardiovascular spasms and acts as a relaxant. It alleviates insomnia, prevents migraines, and reduces anxiety and depression. It also promotes proper immune system function. Tryptophan Works in conjunction with Lysine to lower cholesterol levels.
- Valine – Promotes mental health, muscle coordination and emotions.