Amino acids are often called 'the building blocks of life' - they play a vital role in a range of biological functions from building muscle to immunity, mental health and preventing cardiovascular disease.
Introduction: Understanding Amino Acids and Their Role
Amino acids are essential building blocks of proteins.
Amino acids play a key role in a large number of biological processes. They help build muscles , regulate mood , maintain healthy skin , and much more.
In its natural environment , the human body is able to produce some amino acids, while others, called essential amino acids , must be obtained from our diet. The proteins we consume, whether of animal or plant origin, are broken down into individual amino acids by the digestive system. They are then reassembled into new proteins according to our body's specific needs. This is why a balanced diet rich in protein is so essential.
The Benefits of Amino Acids on the Human Body Explained
Improved immune function
Amino acids play a crucial role in the functioning of our immune system . For example, the amino acid called glutamine is essential for gut health and keeping the immune system in balance. Additionally, cysteine , another amino acid, helps in the production of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from free radical damage, thereby boosting immunity.
Mental health support
There are certain amino acids that have a significant impact on mental health . For example, tyrosine enhances the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine, often called the “feel good” neurotransmitter. Similarly, tryptophan contributes to the production of serotonin, another neurotransmitter important for regulating mood. As such, an amino acid imbalance could contribute to conditions like depression and anxiety.
Good health of skin and hair
Amino acids, especially cysteine and methionine , are essential for healthy skin and hair . They promote the production of collagen and keratin, structural proteins that are the main components of hair, skin, and nails. A deficiency in these amino acids could lead to premature aging of the skin and hair loss.
Prevention of cardiovascular diseases
Certain amino acids may help prevent cardiovascular disease . For example, arginine is converted by the body into nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, methionine helps reduce levels of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
The Impact of Amino Acids on Physical Performance
When it comes to exercise and physical performance, amino acids play a huge role. You may have heard about the importance of amino acids for muscle building and tissue repair after training, but their influence goes far beyond that.
Leucine , for example, is an essential amino acid that activates a cellular pathway essential to building skeletal muscle by triggering protein synthesis. This is why leucine is commonly used in dietary supplements for people looking to increase their muscle mass.
Amino acids such as tyrosine and tryptophan also play an important role in the production of neurotransmitters, which are essential for cognitive performance. These neurotransmitters are involved in regulating attention, concentration, mood, and motivation – all crucial factors for physical performance.
Amino acids can help reduce fatigue and tiredness. The amino acid beta-alanine is a buffer sometimes used to delay the onset of fatigue during intense physical exertion. Similarly, glycine and taurine are amino acids that can help maintain energy levels.
