You probably know that protein is essential to your bodily functions. It helps you build muscle and keeps your energy levels high throughout the day. Everyone talks about eating enough protein, especially if you are on a vegetarian diet, but do you actually know what makes protein so powerful?
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Technically described as “any organic compound with both a carboxyl and amino group,” these chains are found throughout your muscles and tissues as well as in protein-rich foods, such as meat and eggs.
Of course, discussing amino acids isn’t as easy as saying they are good or bad. That’s because there are 20 different amino acids present in nature and in your body. Scientists identify and separate amino acids into categories based on the amino acid’s side chains. Furthermore, each of the 20 amino acids plays a different role in your body. Some help heal wounds, some build muscle and yet others produce energy.
In terms of diet and health, it’s important to distinguish between essential and non-essential amino acids. The 11 non-essential amino acids can be produced by your body. However, the 9 essential amino acids cannot be produced by your body and must be obtained from food or supplements. The latter grouping includes amino acids such as lysine, which is beneficial to tissue growth, tryptophan, which can help regulate your mood, and leucine, which is essential to wound healing.
As the building blocks of protein, the benefits of amino acids are enormous, and it’s easy to see why many professional athletes add amino acids to their normal diets on a daily basis. For example, some amino acids can aid in weight loss thanks to their abilities to preserve lean body mass and aid in fat loss. On the other hand, other amino acids also preserve body mass, help muscle recovery, improve mood and create more consistent sleeping patterns.
Related Stories
So, if you’re not consuming amino acids, you’re missing out on their amazing health benefits. It’s super easy to add amino acids to your daily diet. Simply grab one of the supplements listed below and start improving your nutrition ASAP.
1. Purisure Beta Alanine Powder
Alanine is a non-essential amino acid, meaning your body can produce it. However, this natural product aids in metabolism and creates extra energy for the brain and muscles. For that reason, adding extra Alanine to your diet may result in increased athletic performance. The is easy to use. Simply mix one dose of this unflavored supplement with your drink of choice and consume 30 minutes prior to your workout.
2. Quantum Health Super Lysine+
Unlike Alanine, Lysine is an essential amino acid, meaning your body cannot produce it and you therefore need to consume it through food and supplements. This amino acid is important for tissue repair and growth. It is also essential to the production of several hormones and enzymes. However, many people will find that they lack enough Lysine in their diet. That’s why is so popular. These tablets offer advanced immune support. They are particularly useful if you suffer from herpes outbreaks. By strengthening your immune system, Lysine can lessen the frequency and severity of future outbreaks.
3. NOW Foods L-Methionine 500 mg
Methionine is another essential amino acid you may not get enough of in your diet. This amino acid plays an important role in keeping your skin elastic, strengthening your hair and nails and protecting your tendons during exercise. For beauty and body, these capsules are recommended. They are GMO-free and also include vitamin B6 for increased immune function.
4. Havasu Nutrition Extra Strength L Arginine
One of the most important amino acids for endurance athletes, Arginine, offers energy, heart and immune system support. This is a non-essential amino acid, so your body should produce what is required for normal function. However, individuals who want to push their bodies to the extreme should invest in a good supplement, like the . These capsules can help increase blood flow and improve endurance.
5. BulkSupplements L-Glutamine Powder
Glutamine is one of the most abundant amino acids found in the body. That’s because this chain has the job of converting nitrogen into energy and is therefore essential to doing anything in life. For gym goers who find they need an extra dose of energy to get the most out of their workouts, the is an ideal choice. In addition to increasing your energy stores, this supplement can also increase immune function and decrease muscle recovery times.
6. BRI Nutrition L-Theanine 200mg Supplement
Found in tea and some mushrooms, Theanine is an amino acid analogue known to promote calm and relaxation. It may also help your brain retain new information much more quickly. And because it reduces stress and anxiety, Theanine may also help improve your sleep cycle. To take advantage of these benefits, order a bottle of the and take one serving daily.
7. Micro Ingredients US Origin L-Glycine Powder
Although mostly known as a neurotransmitter that works to support brain health, the non-essential amino acid known as Glycine may also aid in muscle growth and decrease muscle recovery times. In addition, it keeps cartilage healthy throughout the body, therefore protecting the joints from injury. To add extra Glycine to your diet, order the and add one gram to water, juice or a smoothie one to three times per day.