Amino Acids

Alanine (Ala) is a nonessential amino acid that plays a crucial role in the body’s metabolism. It helps transfer nitrogen from peripheral tissues to the liver and supports glucose production during fasting. Alanine is naturally produced in the body and is also found in various dietary sources, making it readily available for vital bodily functions.

Arginine is a vital amino acid that supports blood flow, wound healing, and immune system function. It plays a crucial role in producing nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes and widens blood vessels to enhance circulation. Arginine is naturally present in foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, dairy, nuts, and legumes. It is also commonly used in supplements by bodybuilders and athletes to support muscle growth.

Asparagine is an amino acid that supports brain function and helps maintain nervous system balance. It plays a key role in protein synthesis and amino acid metabolism. Found in foods such as dairy, beef, poultry, eggs, fish, and asparagus, asparagine is important for brain health and mood regulation.

Aspartic acid is an amino acid that supports brain health and hormone production. It plays a key role in hormone synthesis and release, while also aiding nervous system function. Naturally found in foods such as poultry, eggs, cheese, and asparagus, aspartic acid is commonly used in supplements by athletes to enhance performance. Maintaining adequate levels helps support energy production and hormonal balance.

Beta-alanine is a naturally occurring amino acid that supports muscle endurance and exercise performance. It helps produce carnosine, a compound that buffers acid in muscles and reduces fatigue during high-intensity activity. Commonly found in meat, fish, and poultry, beta-alanine is also widely used in supplements to enhance workout capacity and delay muscle exhaustion.

Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) are a group of three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These amino acids play crucial roles in muscle protein synthesis, energy production, and recovery, especially during physical activity. Measuring total BCAA levels in the blood provides insight into protein metabolism, nutritional status, and muscle health. Imbalances may be linked to poor dietary intake, metabolic dysfunction, or increased demand due to stress, illness, or intense training. BCAA levels are especially important for athletes, individuals experiencing fatigue, or those recovering from illness or muscle loss.

Citrulline is a compound that supports blood flow and muscle endurance. It helps the body produce nitric oxide, which relaxes and widens blood vessels. Naturally found in foods like watermelons, cucumbers, and pumpkins, citrulline is popular among athletes for its ability to boost exercise performance, reduce fatigue, and speed up recovery. It plays a key role in healthy circulation and effective physical performance.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in suppressing neuronal activity in the brain. It helps regulate mood, anxiety, and sleep, fostering relaxation and calm. By counterbalancing the effects of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate, proper GABA function is vital for mental and emotional health.

Glutamic acid is an amino acid that plays a crucial role in brain function and muscle energy. It serves as a major neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory, while also supporting protein synthesis and cognitive performance. Commonly found in protein-rich foods such as meat, eggs, and dairy, glutamic acid is vital for maintaining healthy brain activity and overall physical strength.

Glutamine is an amino acid that supports digestive health and boosts the immune system. It plays a vital role in maintaining intestinal function, aiding digestion, and facilitating muscle recovery. Commonly found in meats, eggs, and dairy products, glutamine is also used in supplements to enhance digestive health and immune support.

Glycine is an amino acid that supports sleep quality, skin health, and overall recovery. As a building block of proteins, it plays a vital role in collagen production, wound healing, and maintaining healthy skin. Glycine is found in protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, and dairy, and is commonly used in supplements to promote restful sleep and tissue repair.

Histidine is an essential amino acid that supports immune function, tissue repair, and nerve protection. It is a precursor to histamine, a compound important for immune responses and digestion. Found in foods such as meat, fish, and dairy, histidine is vital for maintaining healthy tissues, blood cells, and the myelin sheath around nerve cells.

Homoarginine is a compound that supports cardiovascular health by boosting nitric oxide production, which helps widen blood vessels and improve blood flow. Present in small amounts in legumes and fish, homoarginine plays a key role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining heart function. Proper levels of homoarginine are essential for healthy circulation and overall heart and vascular health.

Isoleucine is an essential amino acid that supports muscle repair, energy production, and protein synthesis. Commonly found in meat, fish, and dairy products, it plays a crucial role in muscle recovery and endurance, especially for athletes and physically active individuals. Maintaining adequate isoleucine levels is important for muscle health, strength, and overall performance.

Leucine is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in muscle building and repair. It aids the body in producing proteins and supports muscle recovery and energy production. Leucine is found in foods such as meat, fish, and dairy, and is especially important for athletes and bodybuilders.

Lysine supports immune system health and aids in collagen production. It is an essential amino acid needed for protein synthesis. Lysine is present in meat, fish, dairy products, and legumes, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and bones. It helps with wound healing and calcium absorption. Keeping proper lysine levels is essential for strong immunity and healthy skin. It is important for bone strength and overall wellness.

Methionine is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in detoxification and metabolism. It is vital for the production of other amino acids and can be found in foods such as meat, fish, and dairy. Methionine supports liver health, helps eliminate toxins, and promotes healthy skin and nails.

The Omega-6 / Omega-3 Ratio represents the balance between Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids in the diet. This ratio is crucial for health, as an imbalance—particularly a high Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio—is associated with increased inflammation and a greater risk of chronic diseases.

Ornithine is an amino acid that supports liver health and plays a crucial role in the body’s detoxification process. It is a key part of the urea cycle, helping to remove ammonia from the body. Found in foods like meat, fish, and dairy, ornithine also aids in wound healing and tissue repair.

Phenylalanine (Phe) is an essential amino acid that supports brain function and mood. It is needed for the production of proteins and neurotransmitters, including dopamine, which affects mental well-being. Phenylalanine can be found in foods such as meat, fish, dairy, and soy products.

Proline is an amino acid that plays a vital role in supporting skin and joint health. It is essential for collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity, the strength of connective tissue, and cartilage integrity. Found abundantly in foods like meat, dairy, and eggs, proline also aids in wound healing and joint flexibility.

Sarcosine is an amino acid that supports mental health and metabolism. It plays a role in the synthesis of other amino acids, aids muscle growth, and supports cognitive function. Naturally found in egg yolks, turkey, and legumes, sarcosine is associated with brain health and is being researched for its potential benefits in mental health.

Serine is an amino acid that plays a key role in brain function, mental health, and muscle development. It helps produce neurotransmitters and supports immune system activity. Serine is naturally produced in the body and is also found in foods like soybeans, nuts, eggs, fish, dairy, and meat. Some people take serine supplements to support cognitive and muscle health.

Taurine is an amino acid essential for the function of heart muscles, vision, and nerve health. It supports cardiovascular health, helps maintain healthy eyes, and aids in nerve growth and activity. Taurine naturally occurs in foods like meat, fish, and dairy.

Threonine is an essential amino acid involved in protein synthesis, collagen production, and immune system support. It plays a vital role in maintaining gut health, supporting the lining of the digestive tract, and promoting healthy skin and connective tissues. Threonine is commonly found in foods such as meat, dairy products, and legumes.

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that supports sleep and mood. It helps the body produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects sleep, emotions, and appetite. Found in foods like turkey, chicken, milk, and nuts, tryptophan plays a vital role in relaxation, sleep, and overall mental well-being.

Tyrosine is an amino acid that supports brain function and mood. It helps produce neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which affect mood, focus, and mental alertness. Found in foods like cheese, soy products, fish, and poultry, tyrosine is important for emotional well-being, stress response, and thyroid function.

Valine is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in supporting muscle growth and energy production. It is vital for protein synthesis, muscle repair, and tissue recovery. Valine also aids endurance and helps regulate blood sugar levels. This amino acid is commonly found in foods such as dairy, meat, grains, and mushrooms.