Why Do We Need Amino Acids?

Amino acids are a crucial, yet basic unit of protein, and they contain an amino group and a carboxylic group. They play an extensive role in gene expression process, which includes an adjustment of protein functions that facilitate messenger RNA (mRNA) translation.

There are over 700 types of amino acids that have been discovered in nature. Almost all of them are α-amino acids. They have been found in: • bacteria • fungi • algae • plants.

Amino acids can best be described as the construction blocks from which protein is made. Just as in a child's construction kit the pieces come in different shapes and sizes and yet fit together to make something recognizable, so the more than 20 amino acids each have unique characteristics, and yet are c ompatible in forming proteins essential for various biological processes.

Classifications

Experts classify amino acids based on a variety of features, including whether people can acquire them through diet. Accordingly, scientists recognize three amino acid types:
1. Nonessential
2. Essential
3. Conditionally essential

However, the classification as essential or nonessential does not actually reflect their importance as all 20 amino acids are necessary for human health.

Eight of these amino acids are essential (or indispensable) and cannot be produced by the body. They are:
• Leucine
• Isoleucine
• Lysine
• Threonine
• Methionine
• Phenylalanine
• Valine
• Tryptophan

Benefits of amino acids

Protein Synthesis. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. They are essential for the synthesis of structural proteins

Muscle Growth and Repair. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) such as leucine, isoleucine, and valine are particularly important for muscle protein synthesis, aiding in muscle growth and repair.

Neurotransmitter Production. Amino acids like tryptophan and tyrosine are precursors to neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, respectively, influencing mood, cognition, and behavior.

Energy Production. Certain amino acids can be converted into energy, especially during periods of increased physical activity or low carbohydrate availability.

Immune Function. Amino acids contribute to the production of antibodies and immune system components, playing a role in immune function and response.

Hormone Regulation. Amino acids are involved in the synthesis of hormones such as insulin, growth hormone, and thyroid hormones, contributing to metabolic regulation.

Wound Healing. Amino acids, especially arginine and glutamine, are involved in the wound healing process and tissue repair.

Hair Health. Amino acids are vital for maintaining healthy hair growth and preventing hair loss. Specific amino acids such as cysteine and methionine contribute to the formation of keratin, a protein essential for hair structure and strength. Supplements targeted at hair health can help improve thickness and overall hair condition.

Collagen Formation. Proline and lysine are crucial for the synthesis of collagen, a structural protein that supports skin, bones, and connective tissues.

How many amino acids does your body need?

  • While it's not necessary to consume foods rich in amino acids with every meal, maintaining a balanced intake throughout the day is crucial. The recommended daily allowance for each of the essential amino acids is based on body weight, with the suggested amount provided for every 2.2 lbs:
  • Histidine: 14 milligrams
  • Isoleucine: 19 milligrams
  • Leucine: 42 milligrams
  • Lysine: 38 milligrams
  • Methionine: 19 milligrams
  • Phenylalanine: 33 milligrams
  • Threonine: 20 milligrams
  • Tryptophan: 5 milligrams
  • Valine: 24 milligrams

Conclusion

In considering amino acids in relation to health and ill health there are two main areas to cover. The first looks at particular conditions relating to disorders of amino acid metabolism, resulting in a related pathological state. The second area, and the one which attracts the major interest among nutritionally orientated practitioners, is that involving conditions not specifically related to diseases of amino acid metabolism, and yet which appear to respond positively to dietary manipulation which involves the intake of particular amino acids (and other nutrients).

Such conditions as certain forms of depression; insomnia; herpes infections; weight problems; fat metabolism dysfunction; epilepsy, etc. have all been shown to improve, in suitable cases, by the use of appropriate amino acid therapy. Certain physiological functions have also been enhanced by the selective use of amino acids. These include detoxification of heavy metals; modification of free radical activity; enhanced mental function via neurotransmitter stimulation etc.

The ability of the brain neurons to manufacture and utilize a number of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, acetylcholine and, it is conjectured, the catecholamines, dopamine and norepinephrine, is dependent upon the concentrations of both the amino acids and choline in the bloodstream. This largely depends upon the food composition at the previous meal.2 Since the brain is apparently unable to make adequate quantities of amino acids and choline to meet its requirements for neurotransmitter synthesis it is vital that adequate quantities of these precursors are present in the circulation. In the current context it is pertinent to simply be aware of the vital role played by amino acids in brain function. It is pointed out that the dry material of the brain comprises more than one third protein, and that stress can create a situation in which non-essential amino acids cannot be adequately produced to meet its needs. A number of researchers have shown that such a situation can result in a range of mento-emotional symptoms, such as depression, apathy, irritability, etc. The subsequent imbalance in uric acid levels resulting from incomplete amino acid synthesis, and consequent utilization of free amino acids as fuel by the body, can result in self mutilating behavior in children.