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Protein builds cells and repairs tissues. Amino acids are the primary ingredient of protein, which are linked in polypeptide chains. This is how muscle-fibers, bone, hair, and collagen are formed. Amino acids are also responsible for immunoglobulins (antibody) formation. There is no cell in the body which is independent of amino acids, especially those involving nerve impulse transmission.
If there is an amino-acid deficiency (even one), an autoimmune effect may occur. The T-cells, or B-cells could accidently label its own DNA, or RNA and call it an antigen, or a “non self,” and proceed to attack it.
There are approximately 20 dietary amino acids, nine of which are essential. Many of the non-essential amino acids are still necessary. Essentials are identified as lysine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, phenylalanine, histidine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. The non-essential amino acids include alanine, tryptophan, cystine, glutamine, glycine, hydroxyproline, proline, serine, and aspartic.
Quality proteins are the best source of amino acids, such as fish and chicken. Complete dietary proteins can occur by combining certain vegetable proteins such as rice and kidney beans, particularly since variety is important as amino acids work together within delicate dynamics.
Therapeutic amino acids can be taken as supplements and can be a preferred method of ingestion. Sometimes one may not be able to eat enough of one food to gain a therapeutic amount of amino acids. Supplementation might be considered for a short period of time and consultation of a physician is encouraged.
This amino acid is converted into the neurotransmitter serotonin which has the power to stimulate synapses. L-tryptophan is also important in the formation of B- lymphocytes, and is also vital for the production of niacin.
Serotonin is believed to be responsible for the sleep state, decreasing the electrical activity in the brain. Warm milk, and cheese are high in tryptophan. Moderate doses can create an improved memory, concentration and increase judgement ability. Migraines have been attributed to lowered serotonin amounts.
This amino acid is abundant in animal, nut and vegetable sources, and is rapidly absorbed by the digestive tract. It is used especially for brain neurotransmitters, hormones, and protein tissues, and has the ability to stimulate the endorphins. Consequently it has been used in pain management. GL-Phenylalanine has successfully been used in chronic arthritis, back pain, PMS and bursitis.
GL Phenylalanine is also able to stimulate the amino acid tyrosine which helps produce the neurotransmitter hormone, norepinephrine, and this allows for an improvement in mental alertness and memory.
Again, before taking doses of this amino acid it is suggested that one consult a physician to get the right dosage for the right length of time.
When the body metabolizes arginine and ornithine are manufactured. They have been considered to be nonessential. These two amino acids work together along with other nutrients to stimulate the human growth hormone. This is what allows children to develop.
The human growth hormone (HGH) appears to stimulate the immune system, especially the thymus. In addition it helps in accelerating wound healing, strengthening bones and connective tissue, preventing abnormal blood clotting and increasing muscle size.
By the age of 50 there is little or no human growth factor released. However it is agreed by biochemists that there is still some HGH stored in the pituitary gland. A therapeutic dose of arginine and ornithine can stimulate the latent release of human growth hormone which can stimulate the immune system, increase protein synthesis, and alter metabolism to burn fat, instead of protein. This has been capitalized upon by “the get thin fast” manufacturers and sold as “fat fighters”. It is known, however, that you cannot take a pill to fight fat. Simple knowledge of what fats to avoid, with exercise, can fight fat more effectively.
As with any other supplementation, it is advised that before taking this, the consultation of a specialist is in order. Taking this amino acid can suppress the utilization of lysine.
This amino acid is a byproduct of two other amino acids and is also considered to be nonessential. It can only be produced then when there is sufficient vitamin C, B6, iron, and other amino acids. This particular amino acid has been demonstrated to play an important part in improving fat metabolism in the heart. Studies have shown that L-Carnitine has an effect on lowering cholesterol and the triglycerides in the blood and also acts as a vasodilator, strengthening the heart.
Therapeutically it transports fatty acids through the cell membranes into the mitochondria. This allows muscles to burn fatty acids more efficiently and store glucose longer.
L-lysine is essential for the formation of collagen and plays a major role in growth and repair of bone, connective tissue, and cartilage. It is also responsible for the stimulation of hormones, enzymes and antibodies. Herpes simplex virus has been treated with L-lysine.
This amino acid is found in animal sources like fish, chicken, eggs, and milk. It is absent in vegetarian diets, unless the food is combined to form complete proteins.
This form of glutamic acid crosses the blood brain barrier and is used by brain cells in combination with glucose as a metabolic fuel. This has been used as a treatment for alcoholism.
Alcoholics physically crave alcohol, glutamic acid appears to get into the brain barrier which has been reported to be deficient in for the alcoholic.