Amino Acids

Amino acids that must be obtained from the diet are called essential amino acids, and those that the body can manufacture from other sources are called non essential amino acids. The body has twenty different amino acids. Under normal conditions, twelve of these amino acids are nonessential and eight are essential.

• Isoleucine: This is needed for hemoglobin formation, and stabilizes and regulates blood sugar and energy levels.

• Leucine: This works with other amino acids to promote the healing of muscle tissue, skin, and bones, lowers blood sugar levels and aids in increasing growth hormone production.

• Lysine: This aids in calcium absorption and maintains a proper nitrogen balance in the body. It also helps form collagen, and aids in the production of antibodies.

• Methionine: A powerful anti-oxidant and a good source of sulfur, which prevents disorders of the hair, skin, and nails. It also assists the breakdown of fats.

• Phenylalanine: This amino acid is used by the brain to produce norepinephrine, a chemical that transmits signals between nerve cells in the brain; promotes alertness and vitality

• Threonine: This helps maintain proper protein balance in the body and is important for the formation of collagen, elastin and tooth enamel.

• Tryptophan: A natural relaxant, it helps alleviate insomnia by inducing normal sleep; reduces anxiety and depression and stabilizes mood.

• Valine: This is needed for muscle metabolism and coordination, tissue repair, and for the maintenance of proper nitrogen balance in the body.