Amino Acids
Type: Mineral
Amino acids are the building blocks that make up protein.
This means that protein is broken down into amino acids after consumption. These amino acids are then rearranged into various combinations to form specific body components, such as building muscles and immune cells. Altogether, there are 20 amino acids that are categorised into:
1. Essential Amino Acids
As our body cannot naturally produce them, essential amino acids must be obtained from foods. They can be found abundantly in animal proteins like meat, eggs and poultry. Plant-based sources often do not contain all essential amino acids. The only exception are soy, quinoa and buckwheat. Therefore, it is recommended for vegetarians to include a variety of plant proteins and grains in their daily diet so to ensure that their essential amino acid needs are met.
There are 3 essential amino acids, which are known as Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA) - leucine, isoleucine and valine. They are highly raved in the sports industry as they can be metabolised directly in the muscle, therefore reducing the amount of protein breakdown and speeding up muscle repair and recovery.
2. Non-Essential Amino Acids
They can be produced by our body. Beta-alanine falls under this category and it is another important amino acid for active individuals. When we exercise, our muscles break down glucose for energy and lactic acid is produced in the process. Due to its acidic nature (low pH), muscle endurance and performance are affected. Beta-alanine can counteract lactic acid build-up in our working muscles by forming carnosine, thus helping to reduce fatigue and soreness during and post-workout. Another amino acid would be arginine. It increases nitric oxide (a gas) in our body that widens our blood vessels. As a result, this facilitates better blood and oxygen delivery to the muscles and helps support optimal performance and recovery.
3. Conditionally Essential Amino Acids
They are typically non-essential but become essential when the body is suffering from an illness or stress, as the amount produced by our body cannot meet the increased demands. One example is glutamine, an non-essential amino acid important for proper immune function.
Share
Stay Inspired with Health Trends
02 Apr 2025
Can't Seem To Stop Bloating
Always feeling bloated? Let's take a closer look into the reason why bloating is so apparent in our daily lives!
20 Mar 2025
8 Tips For Building Mental Resilience In Your Child
As a parent, it's natural to want to help your children deal with the pressures of life, whether it's the demands of school, the changes of puberty, the influence of peers, or the realities of cyberbullying. While you can't shield them from every difficulty, you can certainly teach them how to roll with the punches and bounce back stronger than ever. Cultivate grit in your child with these 8 valuable tips!
18 Mar 2025
Ingredient Spotlight: Placenta and NMN
The concept of the âelixir of youthâ has spanned over centuries and cultures â you have heard of myths, seen it in movies, books and even games. Ageing was once considered irreversible. However, with todayâs modern science, it is possible to influence how well we age.
11 Mar 2025
Ingredient Spotlight: Green Tea Extract
Supercharge your weight loss journey with the power of green tea extractâboost metabolism, burn fat, and stay energised naturally!
01 Mar 2025
Women's Wellness by the Decade: An International Women's Day Focus
International Womenâs Day falls on 8 March and this is a special day to celebrate all strong, unique, capable, and talented women around the world!
Every woman wants to age gracefully â from your 20s to 50s and beyond. There are steps you can take during each phase of life to keep you well and healthy. This is your guide to womenâs wellness through the decades.
Every woman wants to age gracefully â from your 20s to 50s and beyond. There are steps you can take during each phase of life to keep you well and healthy. This is your guide to womenâs wellness through the decades.
27 Feb 2025
A Cold, Flu or Allergy: What is the Difference?
“Ah choo!”
Your nose starts feeling congested and the usual symptoms like sore throat and sneezing starts kicking in, making you think that you are falling sick. Is it a cold, flu or allergies?
11 Feb 2025
Embrace the LOVE – 4 TCM Herbs That Can Spice Up Your Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to celebrate both you and your relationships! During this season of LOVE, find out how these 4 Traditional Chinese Medicinal (TCM) herbs can sprinkle a little extra magic into your love life!
07 Feb 2025
Debunking Common Weight Loss Myths: Separating Fact From Fiction
Think skipping meals or ditching carbs is the secret to shedding extra kilos? Think againâletâs uncover the surprising truths behind the biggest weight loss myths!