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.
Essential amino acids must be obtained from the diet. Conditional amino acids are usually not essential, except in times of illness and stress. Non-essential amino acids are those which the human body is capable of synthesizing. Below is a quick explanation of each essential amino acid and its food sources.
FUNCTION OF HISTIDINE
The function of Histidine is in creating blood cells, facilitating growth, and repair of tissues. It also aids in maintaining the myelin sheath, a protective covering of the nerve cells.
The body forms histamine from histidine, histamine is a substance that is vital for immunity, digestion, and reproductive health.
Sources - milk, parmesan cheese, pumpkin seeds, pork chops, beef steak, chicken breast.
FUNCTION OF ISOLEUCINE
Isoleucine aids in wound healing, regulation of blood sugar, production of hormones, and immunity.
It is involved in muscle metabolism and is heavily concentrated in muscle tissue. It's also important for hemoglobin production and energy regulation.
Sources - Yogurt, cheddar cheese, spirulina, bacon, veal, tuna.
FUNCTION OF LEUCINE
Leucine is important for the general health of muscles. It can stimulate protein synthesis and reduce protein breakdown, especially of muscle protein following physical trauma.
It has a unique effect in that it spares muscle proteins during weight loss, so there is fat loss and not muscle loss.
Sources - whey protein, goat cheese, almonds, eggs, lamb, rib-eye steak.
FUNCTION OF LYSINE
Lysine helps the body absorb calcium, and in the formation of collagen, a substance important for bones and connective tissues including skin, tendons, and cartilage.
It may help reduce feelings of anxiety and levels of the stress hormone cortisol. research indicates that it may even help improve symptoms in people with schizophrenia.
Sources - ricotta cheese, lentil sprouts, milk, eggs, red meat, sardines.
FUNCTION OF METHIONINE
Methionine is an antioxidant that detoxifies the body of harmful substances, such as heavy metals and also prevents liver damage from acetaminophen poisoning.
It is a sulfur-containing amino acid that improves the tone and elasticity of the skin, promotes healthy hair and strengthens nails.
Sources - mozzarella cheese, brazil nuts, chia seeds, bacon, red meat, turkey.
FUNCTION OF PHENYLALANINE
Phenylalanine is needed for the synthesis of proteins, Epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and melanin. It has been studied in the treatment of depression.
It can be converted to the amino acid tyrosine, which is then used to produce important signaling molecules. that improves mood and stress responses.
Sources - milk, pistachios, sweet potato, beef, chicken thigh, salmon.
FUNCTION OF THREONINE
Threonine is needed to create glycine and serine, two amino acids that are necessary for the production of collagen, elastin, and muscle tissue.
It helps keep connective tissues and muscles throughout the body strong and elastic, including the heart, where it is found in significant amounts.
Sources - ricotta cheese, carrot, pumpkin seeds, pork ham, beef steak, eggs.
FUNCTION OF TRYPTOPHAN
Tryptophan is needed for general growth and development, the production of niacin (vitamin B3), the production of DNA and energy metabolism.
It helps to make melatonin and serotonin. Melatonin helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, and serotonin helps to regulate appetite, sleep, mood, and pain.
Sources - cottage cheese, peanut butter, chia seeds, turkey, duck, tuna.
FUNCTION OF VALINE
Valine promotes muscle repair and growth. It's also used to treat metabolic, gallbladder and liver diseases.
It prevents the breakdown of muscle by providing an abundant supply of extra glucose for energy production.
Sources - yogurt, lentil sprouts, sunflower seeds, lamb, chicken thigh, pork belly.
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