Single Form Amino Acids

Amino acids are the foundation of protein. These pieces of building material are an essential part to everyday food and supplement intake.

Amino acids are the foundation of protein. These pieces of building material are an essential part to everyday food and supplement intake.

There are two types of amino acids: Essential and Non-Essential.

Essential amino acids cannot be produced in the body so they must be obtained through food and supplements.

Non-Essential amino acids can be produced in the body and aren't necessarily needed through food and supplements. Although this only rings true for basic survival, not necessarily athletes.

The body needs amino acids for a phenomenal amount of different functions from repairing organs to creating enzymes.

For athletes and weight training individuals, amino acids are required in higher amounts and at specific times for their bodies to function optimally. The reason for this is that the muscles in the human body are made up of amino acids. When one plays sports or puts their body through a tough resistance workout, muscles develop microscopic tears that need to be fixed. To repair the damage from activity the body requires both essential and non-essential amino acids.

Taking amino acid based supplements around activity/workout times will enhance recovery, improve muscle performance, and keep the body in a positive anabolic state.

Certain amino acids have even more effects in the body. Amino acids such as L-Glutamine and L-Arginine have been shown to increase the production of Growth Hormone. L-Tyrosine will help increase the production of important neurotransmitters in the brain. This will help to improve focus and mental acuity. Beta-Alanine is an amino acid that has gained popularity over the past 3 years with studies showing its fantastic endurance improving capabilities. Some studies suggest that as high as a 10% increase in strength from a single dose.

Amino acids do not necessarily have to be used one at a time. A great foundation for amino acid supplementation is L-Glutamine, Branch Chaine Amino Acids, and Beta-Alanine.