What Are Amino Acids, & Do You Need To Be Taking Them?

Amino acids are simply the building blocks of proteins. All living things require amino acids in order to make protein. Your body needs 20 different amino acids in order to function. Some amino acids are made inside of your body, while others must be consumed through a balanced diet. Animal products contain all 9 essential amino acids that your body does not make (eggs, meat, and dairy). Most plant protein sources do not contain all 9 essential amino acids, however consuming a variety of these food sources will help to make sure you are getting enough in your diet.

Amino acids break down food, repair body tissue (muscle), make hormones and neurotransmitters, provide energy, maintain healthy hair, skin & nails, & boost your immune system. Although you can usually get all of the amino acids you need through a healthy diet, some people prefer to take a supplement. Amino acid supplements not only insure you are getting proper nutrition, but they can improve sleep, mood and enhance athletic performance. Amino acids are important for muscle hypertrophy and strength. They help control the balance between the atrophy and growth of muscle. Supplementing your diet with essential amino acids may increase the supply of nitrogen to your body. It can also help maintain the amount of amino acids stored in your skeletal muscles. Making them readily available to repair and build muscle fibers post exercise, which can help with recovery.

Another benefit of amino acid supplementation is regulating blood sugar levels. Some patients with type 2 diabetes who took amino acids regularly were successfully able to lower their blood sugar without impacting their insulin levels. However, it is unclear the long-term effects of amino acids supplements on blood sugar. You should consult with your doctor before taking them if you have any preexisting conditions.

While amino acid supplementation is generally considered to be safe, getting nutrients directly from a balanced diet will always be the ideal way to meet your health goals. However, if you find you need a little help filling in the gaps of your diet, an amino acid supplement may be beneficial to you.