Gain Muscle

What are amino acids? Most people don’t know. There are 2 types of amino acids, essential and non-essential. Essential amino acids cannot be made by the body, thus it is “essential” to get them through diet (and if necessarily supplementation).

Below I have listed each amino acid (both essential and non-essential) and explained what their role is. If you have any questions about amino acids please leave them in the comments and the bottom of the page and I’ll answer them.

Essential amino acids:

Tryptophan
Tryptophan is one of the amino acids working as a natural relaxant helping to alleviate insomnia by inducing normal sleep and reducing anxiety and depression. It helps in the treatment of migraine headaches and it helps to reduce cholesterol levels and the risk of artery and heart spasms.

Lysine
Lysine is involved in the adequate absorption of calcium and helps to form collagen (which makes up bone cartilage and connective tissues). It also aids in the production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes. Recent studies have shown that this is one of the amino acids that may be effective against herpes by improving the balance of nutrients that reduce viral growth. A deficiency may result in tiredness, inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, retarded growth, hair loss, anaemia and reproductive problems.

Methionine
Among the amino acids this is the principle supplier of sulphur which prevents disorders of the hair (influences hair follicles and promotes hair growth), skin and nails. It helps lower cholesterol levels and reduces liver fat and protects the kidneys. It’s also a natural chelating agent for heavy metals and it regulates the formation of ammonia and creates ammonia-free urine.

Phenylalaine
Amino acids are important for the nerve system. Phenylalaine is used by the brain to produce Norepinephrine, a chemical that transmits signals between nerve cells and the brain which keeps you awake and alert, reduces hunger pains, functions as an antidepressant and helps to improve memory.

Threonine
Threonine is an important constituent of collagen, elastin, and enamel protein. It helps to prevent fat build-up in the liver and it helps the digestive and intestinal tracts to function more smoothly. It assists metabolism and assimilation.

Valine
This amino acid is said to promote mental vigour, muscle coordination and calm emotions.

Leucine and isoleucine
Amino acids that provide ingredients for the manufacturing of other essential biochemical components in the body, some of which are utilized for the production of energy, stimulants to the upper brain and helping you to be more alert.

Non essential amino acids:

Arginine
Studies have shown that this is one of the amino acids which has improved immune responses to bacteria, viruses and tumour cells, promotes wound healing and regeneration of the liver, causes the release of growth hormones and is considered crucial for optimal muscle growth and tissue repair.

Tyrosine
Tyrosine is one of more amoni acids known to transmit nerve impulses to the brain, to help overcome depression, to improve memory, to increase mental alertness and to promote the healthy functioning of the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands.

Glycine
Glycine helps to trigger the release of oxygen to the energy requiring cell-making process. It’s also important in the manufacturing of hormones responsible for a strong immune system.

Serine
With other amino acids serine works as A storage source of glucose by the liver and muscles, helps strengthen the immune system by providing antibodies and synthesizes fatty acid sheath around nerve fibres.

Glutamic acid
Considered to be nature’s “brain food” for improving mental capacities. It helps to speed the healing of ulcers, gives a “lift” from fatigue, helps to control alcoholism, schizophrenia and the craving for sugar.

Aspartic acid
When ammonia enters the circulatory system it acts as a highly toxic substance which can be harmful to the central nervous system. Aspartic acid aids in the expulsion of harmful ammonia from the body. Recent studies have shown that aspartic acid may increase resistance to fatigue and increase endurance.

Taurine
Helps stabilize the excitability of membranes which is very important in the control of epileptic seizures. Taurine and sulphur are considered to be factors necessary for the control of many biochemical changes that take place in the aging process. Taurine aids in the clearing of free radical wastes.

Cystine
Some amino acids function as antioxidant. Cystine is a powerful aid to the body in protecting against radiation and pollution. It can help to slow down the aging process, to deactivate free radicals and to neutralize toxins. It aids in protein synthesis and presents cellular change. It is necessary for the formation of the skin, which aids in the recovery from burns and surgical operations.

Histidine
Histidine is found abundantly in haemoglobin and has been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, allergic diseases, ulcers and anaemia. A deficiency can cause poor hearing.

Proline
Proline is extremely important for the proper functioning of joints and tendons and also helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles.

Alanine
Together with other amino acids alanine is an important source of energy for muscle tissue, the brain and central nervous system. It strengthens the immune system by producing antibodies and helps in the metabolism of sugars and organic acids.

Note for athletes & bodybuilders:

High intensity training depletes many of the above amino acids. These aminos are essential for muscle growth and recovery. Low levels of amino acids will hamper lean muscle growth, increase the chance of muscle catabolism (breakdown) and effect your energy levels.

It’s recommended that you use high quality whey protein supplements (which are high in BCAAs) and/or take a separate daily BCAA supplement.