This is a three-part series on Amino acids, their specific functions and food sources. Amino acids are the basic building blocks of proteins, the compounds that synthesize hormones and neurotransmitters in our bodies. They help our bodies to grow, repair body tissue, maintain immunity and produce hormones that maintain body functions.
Non-essential amino acids are those which the human body is capable of synthesizing. In my previous post (Part 1) I wrote about Essential amino acids that must be obtained from the diet. Conditional amino acids are usually not essential, except in times of illness and stress. Below is a quick explanation of each non-essential amino acid and its food sources.
FUNCTION OF ALANINE
Alanine is a proteinogenic amino acid involved in the production of glucose and glycogen. Alanine is produced in our bodies so unlike many other amino acids, it is not required in our daily diet.
High levels of Alanine can lead to high blood pressure and cholesterol levels..
Sources - Greek yogurt, hemp seeds, pistachios, whelk, turkey, tuna.
FUNCTION OF ASPARTIC ACID
Aspartic acid plays a role in the synthesis of proteins and regulation of hormones. It comes in two forms: L-aspartic acid and D-aspartic acid. L-aspartic acid is responsible for the production of antibodies that support the immune system.
D-aspartic acid is found in the pituitary gland and the testes, and is involved in the regulation, release, and synthesis of testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH).
Sources - asparagus, pecans, avocado, sirloin beef, chicken thigh, egg whites.
FUNCTION OF ASPARAGINE
Asparagine plays an important role in the metabolism of ammonia, which is toxic in the human body. The Nervous system needs asparagine to maintain equilibrium. It is also required for the development and function of the brain.
However, Asparagine is a major source for the formation of acrylamides in food.
Sources - asparagus, potato, pumpkin seeds, beef, chicken, seafood
FUNCTION OF GLUTAMIC ACID
Glutamic acid transforms into glutamate in the body. It is a powerful neurotransmitter that is released by nerve cells in the brain and plays an important role in learning and memory.
Glutamic acid has an important role in the metabolism of sugars and fats. It aids in the transportation of potassium into the spinal fluid and across the blood–brain barrier.
Sources - parmesan cheese, pine nuts, sea kelp, caviar, tuna, salami
FUNCTION OF SERINE
Serine is produced from the amino acid glycine and can exist as L-serine and D-serine. They are both important in the process of making tryptophan in the body.
L-serine increases levels of creatine , which promotes muscle mass in the body. D-serine is mainly found in the brain. It assists in stimulating the nervous system and is important in cell communication within the brain.
Sources - lentil sprouts, almonds, cranberry, catfish, organ meat, mackerel
FUNCTION OF SELENOCYSTEINE
Selenocysteine is important for crucial cellular processes, from selenium homeostasis maintenance to the regulation of overall metabolic rate.
A few functions of selenocysteine is in antioxidant activity, in the formation of selenium in the body, which plays an important role in thyroid hormone production and liver function.
Sources - coconut, brazil nuts, banana, organ meat, all meat, seafood
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