Essential Amino Acids

Amino acids are organic compounds that contain at least one carboxyl group and one amino group. Their molecules combine in long chains to form proteins and hence, they are known as the basic building blocks of protein. As far as human utilization is concerned, there are two main groups of amino acids; essential and non-essential amino acids. The human body requires 20 different types of amino acids, out of which 8 are essential and 12 are non-essential.

Essential Amino Acids

They need to be obtained from food, while the non-essential ones are produced by the essential amino acids. Amino acids are important for the human body as they perform important functions like cell building, oxygen transportation, repair of damaged tissues and protection of the body from bacteria and viruses. The daily recommended dosage will depend upon your body weight. Here's a list and information on their importance, and how they can be provided to the body.

L-Methionine: It has strong antioxidant properties and is essential for the breakdown of fats. It is also useful in fighting against muscle degeneration. The daily recommended dosage is 15 mg per kg of body weight.

L-Isoleucine: It is important for the formation of red blood cells and for hemoglobin synthesis. The daily recommended dosage is 20 mg per kg of body weight.

L-Lysine: It is essential for the healthy functioning of the nervous system, synthesis of the various hormones and enzymes in the body and for the production of the conditionally essential (non-essential) amino acid known as L-carathine. The daily recommended dosage is 30 mg per kg of body weight.

L-Leucine: It is necessary for the synthesis of growth hormones and for the healing of wounds of the skin, tissues and bones. The daily recommended dosage is 39 mg per kg of body weight.

L-Threonine: It is necessary for the formation of elastin and collagen and for the maintenance of proteins in the body, especially in the liver. The daily recommended dosage is 15 mg per kg of body weight.

L-Valine: It is essential for healthy muscle development, muscle metabolism, tissue repair and for nitrogen balance in the body. The daily recommended dosage is 26 mg per kg of body weight.

L-Tryptophan: It is essential for serotonin synthesis, to reduce levels of stress, control hyperactivity in children and for depression and migraine cure. The daily recommended dosage is 4 mg per kg of body weight.

L-Phenylalanine: It is essential for the cure of depression and memory loss. It also helps fight against obesity and reduce pain associated with arthritis, menstruation and migraines. The daily recommended dosage is 25 mg per kg of body weight.

The amino acids mentioned above cannot be synthesized by the body, thence, need to be obtained through food sources.

Food Sources

The essential amino acids can be obtained from a number of food sources. Amino acid supplements can also be consumed in case of deficiency of the same. Essential amino acid food include oats, peanuts, Brazilian nuts, cooked lentils and beans, soy protein concentrate, corn, wheat germ, egg whites, cheese, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, pork chops, chicken, beef, salmon, almonds and the different types of rice.

Amino acid supplements should be consumed under the guidance of a physician or else it could lead to toxicity of the essential amino acid in the body. Amino acid supplements can also be consumed along with other nutritional supplements for specific health conditions. Also, if you are consuming just a single amino acid supplement, you should consume it on an empty stomach. This makes it more effective.