This is my last post in the 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.
In my previous posts (Part 1 & 2) on this subject I wrote about Essential and Non-essential amino acids. Conditional amino acids are usually not essential, except in times of illness and stress. Below is a quick explanation of each conditionally essential amino acid and its food sources.
FUNCTION OF ARGININE
Arginine plays an important role in cell division, wound healing, removing ammonia from the body, immune function, and the release of hormones.
It is a precursor for the synthesis of nitric oxide, making it important in the regulation of blood pressure.
Sources - spirulina, pumpkin seeds, milk, salmon, turkey, pork
FUNCTION OF CYSTEINE
The human body uses cysteine to produce the antioxidant glutathione, as well as the amino acid taurine. The body can also convert cysteine into glucose for a source of energy.
Cysteine contains sulfur - This allows cysteine to bond in a special way and maintain the structure of proteins in the body. It also plays a role in the communication between immune system cells.
Sources - swiss cheese, peanuts, sesame seeds, eggs, beef, tuna
FUNCTION OF GLUTAMINE
Glutamine is an energy source for intestinal and immune cells. It also helps maintain the barrier between the intestines and the rest of your body and aids with proper growth of intestinal cells.
The other functions of glutamine include substrate for protein synthesis, anabolic precursor for muscle growth and maintaining acid-base balance in the kidney.
Sources - A2 milk, cabbage, spinach, bone broth, liver, cod
FUNCTION OF GLYCINE
Glycine helps the body break down nutrients, transport fat to be used by cells for energy, in the creation of collagen and the production of enzymes and hormones. It also helps heal damaged joints and aid digestion.
It is used to treat schizophrenia and plays an important role in the prevention of mental disorders. It also helps with sleep.
Sources - gelatin powder, milk, spinach, bone broth, clams, poultry skin
FUNCTION OF PROLINE
Functions of proline include helping form collagen, regenerating cartilage, forming connective tissue, repairing skin damage and wounds, healing the gut lining, and repairing joints.
Proline plays important roles in protein synthesis and metabolism, antioxidative reactions and immune responses.
Sources - parmesan cheese, gelatin powder, natto, pork skin, trotters, fish broth
FUNCTION OF TYROSINE
Tyrosine is an essential component for the production of several important neurotransmitters, like epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
It helps the body produce enzymes, thyroid hormones, and the skin pigment melanin.
Sources - yogurt, avocado, almonds, beef, chicken, salmon
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