Amino Acids

Alanine (Ala) is a non-essential amino acid that plays a key role in the body's metabolism. It is involved in transferring nitrogen from peripheral tissues to the liver and supports glucose production during fasting. Alanine is naturally synthesised in the body and is also present in a variety of dietary sources, making it readily available for essential bodily functions.

Arginine is an essential amino acid that supports blood circulation, wound healing, and immune system function. It plays a vital role in the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes and dilates blood vessels to enhance circulation. Arginine naturally occurs in foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, nuts, and legumes. It is also widely used in supplements by bodybuilders and athletes to encourage muscle growth.

Asparagine is an amino acid that supports brain function and helps maintain the balance of the nervous system. It plays a key role in protein synthesis and the production of amino acids. Found in foods such as dairy, beef, poultry, eggs, fish, and asparagus, asparagine makes an important contribution to brain health and mood regulation.

Aspartic acid is an amino acid that supports brain health and hormone production. It plays a key role in hormone synthesis and release, while also aiding nervous system function. Found naturally in foods such as poultry, eggs, cheese, and asparagus, aspartic acid is often used in supplements by athletes to enhance performance. Maintaining adequate levels helps support energy production and hormonal balance.

Beta-alanine is a naturally occurring amino acid that supports muscle endurance and exercise performance. It aids in the production of carnosine, a compound that buffers acid in muscles and reduces fatigue during high-intensity activity. Commonly found in meat, fish, and poultry, beta-alanine is also widely used in supplements to enhance workout capacity and delay muscle exhaustion.

Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) refer to a group of three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These amino acids play key roles in muscle protein synthesis, energy production, and recovery, especially during physical activity. Measuring total BCAA levels in the blood provides insight into protein metabolism, nutritional status, and muscle health. Imbalances can be linked to poor dietary intake, metabolic dysfunction, or increased demand due to stress, illness, or intense training. BCAA levels are particularly relevant for athletes, individuals with fatigue, or those recovering from illness or muscle loss.

Citrulline is a compound that supports blood flow and muscle endurance. It helps the body produce nitric oxide, which relaxes and dilates blood vessels. Naturally found in foods such as watermelons, cucumbers, and pumpkins, citrulline is popular among athletes for its ability to improve exercise performance, reduce fatigue, and speed up recovery. It plays a key role in healthy circulation and effective physical performance.

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in inhibiting neuronal activity in the brain. It helps regulate mood, anxiety, and sleep, promoting relaxation and calmness. By balancing the effects of excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate, proper GABA function is essential for mental and emotional well-being.

Glutamic acid is an amino acid that plays a crucial role in brain function and muscle energy. It acts as a primary neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory, while also supporting protein synthesis and cognitive performance. Commonly found in protein-rich foods such as meat, eggs, and dairy products, glutamic acid is essential for maintaining healthy brain activity and overall physical strength.

Glutamine is an amino acid that supports digestive health and boosts the immune system. It plays a vital role in maintaining intestinal function, aiding digestion, and assisting muscle recovery. Commonly found in meats, eggs, and dairy products, glutamine is also used in supplements to enhance digestive health and immune function.

Glycine is an amino acid that supports sleep quality, skin health, and overall recovery. As a building block of proteins, it plays a vital role in collagen production, wound healing, and maintaining healthy skin. Glycine is found in protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, and dairy, and is commonly used in supplements to promote restful sleep and tissue repair.

Histidine is an essential amino acid that supports immune function, tissue repair, and nerve protection. It is a precursor to histamine, a compound important for immune responses and digestion. Found in foods such as meat, fish, and dairy, histidine is vital for maintaining healthy tissues, blood cells, and the myelin sheath around nerve cells.

Homoarginine is a compound that supports cardiovascular health by increasing nitric oxide production, which helps to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow. Present in small amounts in legumes and fish, homoarginine plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining heart function. Adequate levels of homoarginine are essential for healthy circulation and overall heart and blood vessel health.

Isoleucine is an essential amino acid that aids muscle repair, energy production, and protein synthesis. Commonly found in meat, fish, and dairy products, it plays a vital role in muscle recovery and endurance, particularly for athletes and those who are physically active. Maintaining sufficient isoleucine levels is crucial for muscle health, strength, and overall performance.

Leucine is an essential amino acid that plays a vital role in muscle building and repair. It helps the body produce proteins and supports muscle recovery and energy production. Leucine is found in foods such as meat, fish, and dairy, and is particularly important for athletes and bodybuilders.

Lysine is an essential amino acid that supports immune health and plays a key role in protein and collagen production. Found in foods such as meat, fish, dairy, and legumes, lysine is important for skin and bone health. It aids in wound healing, calcium absorption, and overall growth. Maintaining adequate lysine levels is vital for strong immunity, healthy skin, bone strength, and overall well-being.

Methionine is an essential amino acid that plays a vital role in detoxification and metabolism. It is important for the production of other amino acids and can be sourced from foods such as meat, fish, and dairy products. Methionine supports liver function, assists in the removal of toxins, and contributes to healthy skin and nails.

The Omega-6 / Omega-3 Ratio reflects the balance between Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids in the diet. This ratio is crucial for health, as an imbalance—particularly a high Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio—is associated with increased inflammation and a greater risk of chronic diseases.

Ornithine is an amino acid that supports liver health and plays a vital role in the body’s detoxification process. It is a key component of the urea cycle, helping to remove ammonia from the body. Found in foods such as meat, fish, and dairy, ornithine also aids wound healing and tissue repair.

Phenylalanine (Phe) is an essential amino acid that supports brain function and mood. It is necessary for the production of proteins and neurotransmitters, including dopamine, which influences mental well-being. Phenylalanine can be obtained from foods such as meat, fish, dairy, and soya products.

Proline is an amino acid that plays a crucial role in supporting skin and joint health. It is essential for collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity, the strength of connective tissue, and cartilage integrity. Found abundantly in foods such as meat, dairy, and eggs, proline also aids wound healing and joint flexibility.

Sarcosine is an amino acid that supports mental health and metabolism. It contributes to the synthesis of other amino acids, aids muscle growth, and supports cognitive function. Naturally found in egg yolks, turkey, and legumes, sarcosine is associated with brain health and is being investigated for its potential in mental health research.

Serine is an amino acid that plays a significant role in brain function, mental health, and muscle development. It contributes to the production of neurotransmitters and supports immune system activity. Serine is naturally produced in the body and is also found in foods such as soybeans, nuts, eggs, fish, dairy products, and meat. Some people use serine supplements to support cognitive and muscular health.

Taurine is an amino acid essential for the function of the heart muscle, vision, and nerve health. It supports cardiovascular function, helps maintain healthy eyes, and contributes to nerve growth and activity. Taurine is naturally found in foods such as meat, fish, and dairy products.

Threonine is an essential amino acid involved in protein synthesis, collagen formation, and immune system support. It plays a key role in maintaining gut health, supporting the digestive tract lining, and contributing to healthy skin and connective tissues. Threonine is commonly found in foods such as meat, dairy products, and legumes.

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that supports sleep and mood. It helps the body produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that influences sleep, emotions, and appetite. Found in foods such as turkey, chicken, milk, and nuts, tryptophan plays a key role in relaxation, sleep, and overall mental well-being.

Tyrosine is an amino acid that supports brain function and mood. It helps produce neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which influence mood, focus, and mental alertness. Found in foods like cheese, soy products, fish, and poultry, tyrosine is important for emotional well-being, stress response, and thyroid function.

Valine is an essential amino acid that plays a key role in supporting muscle growth and energy production. It is vital for protein synthesis, muscle repair, and tissue recovery. Valine also contributes to endurance and helps regulate blood sugar levels. This amino acid is commonly found in foods such as dairy, meat, cereals, and mushrooms.