Boosts immunity

If you’re looking to get your immune system running like a well-oiled machine, the amino acid N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is more than up for the challenge. That’s because NAC is a building block for glutathione, the principal antioxidant within your body.

Promotes healthy blood pressure within the normal range

An excellent amino acid for keeping blood vessels healthy and supporting healthy blood pressure levels is L-arginine, which functions as the precursor to nitric oxide. L-arginine is notable for its ability to boost blood vessel flexibility.

Reduces fatigue

Branched chain amino acids, particularly leucine, are great at allowing the human body to store an important polysaccharide known as glycogen. Glycogen is responsible for energy storage and is found within liver cells and skeletal muscle.

Helps maintain a healthy weight

Along with regular exercise and a healthy diet, amino acids are an excellent way to promote a healthy weight. While studies are ongoing, it is known that arginine, glutamine and methionine promote stimulation of the growth hormone known as somatotropin, which supports protein synthesis and fat oxidation.

How are Amino Acids Used?

Found in dietary proteins, vitamins and supplements, amino acids are utilized by the body to make tissue proteins, some of which are broken down to produce energy. The body uses food proteins and breaks them down into amino acids, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream and are used by the body’s cells to create new proteins for energy.

Essential Amino Acids Food Sources

Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained by diet or supplementation. Fortunately essential amino acids are abundant in a healthy diet and can be found in animal products such as red meat, poultry, seafood, eggs and dairy. Plant-based essential amino acid sources include quinoa and soy (each offers all of the essential amino acids), beans, nuts and seeds.