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Amino Acid Supplements

Amino acids are molecules in the body which are particularly important in the biochemistry of the body. They are critical to life and have a variety of metabolism roles, particularly important to building block proteins. Amino acids are also important to other biological molecules such as co-enzymes or as precursors for biosynthesis.

Any variety of amino acid is commonly used in food technology and production. As an example, monosodium glutamate is a common flavor enhancer. There are also applications in the production of biodegradable plastics, drugs and catalysts.

All in all, amino acids are highly flexible, usable and essential parts of the overall health of individuals. In nutritional jargon, the essential amino acids are those which are indispensable to the body and must be provided through one's diet. Some of the essential amino acids are leucine, lysine, threonine, tryptophan and valine.

But, there are 20 different essential and nonessential amino acids that are found within proteins. The chemical composition of an amino acid determines its biological effect on the protein. This means that amino acids combine in specific ways which change the characteristics of proteins.

As researchers understand more of the structure and behavior of proteins, they begin to see how amino acids interact. The ultimate goal is to understand how amino acids impact the health of an individual.

Humans can produce within the body 10 of the 20 different amino acids. The rest of the amino acids must be contained in food. If an individual doesn't get enough, of even one of the essential amino acids, it results in the degrading of proteins so essential to good health. For the most part proteins develop muscle cells. But, unlike fat and starch, the human body does not store excess amino acids for later use. This means that amino acids must be provided in the daily diet.

The ten different amino acids which the body can produce are combinations of other amino acids. For example cystine and tyrosine are made from the essential amino acid phenylalanine.

Proteins we eat are broken down into different sets of peptides and amino acids in both the pancreas and the small intestines. The peptides are chains of amino acids which are then further broken down into the component parts in the intestine. They are then transported from the intestine through the blood system and into the cells where they provide energy and are used to build and synthesize DNA. Any amino acid which is not used by the body is excreted as urine.

Amino acids are not only necessary for DNA and energy, but they are also involved in the metabolism of the citric acid cycle. They help transport oxygen in the blood and are one of the underlying components of hemoglobin. An amino acid also helps vitamins do their jobs as well as help control enzymatic processes and hormonal activities.

Amino acids also act as neurotransmitters or precursors of neurotransmitters. These are chemicals that carry information from one nerve cell to the other and essentially allow the brain to communicate with other parts of the body. Unlike other substances, neurotransmitters are able to pass through the brain's blood barrier and help it to communicate with nerve cells throughout the body.

Some individuals may find it necessary to consume amino acid supplements. Athletes, for instance, consume nutrients at a higher rate than non-athletes and may require amino acid supplements to help build body mass, control weight and improve overall fitness.

Many of the supplements that athletes and others use are protein supplements. They usually come as bars, shakes and protein powders. These supplements are often designed with specific amino acids to help with muscle building and the prevention of muscle deterioration during intense workouts.

Without the necessary daily quantity of amino acids we find ourselves emotionally and physically fatigued. Our bodies are susceptible to bacteria and viral infections. Amino acids are vital to living mechanisms including plants and animals. To maintain a healthy daily level of amino acids, a balanced diet is essential.

The previous article is on Green Tea Supplement.

Always consult with your doctor or a certified professional trainer before undertaking any exercises, treatments, or dietary supplements.

Other wiki resources:  herbal supplements; amino acid; raw food supplements; prenatal vitamins