Essential Amino Acids
Amino acids are building blocks that make up proteins. It
is proteins that provide the structure of all living things. Next to water
proteins make up the bulk of our weight.
Proteins are made up of chains of amino acids that are held
together by peptide bonds.
Amino Acids allow vitamins and minerals to do their
function. Several amino acids allow the body to use and absorb vitamins and
minerals. For example if there is a low level of the amino acid L-Tyrosine it
can lead to iron deficiency. A deficiency of l-tyrosine and l-methionine has
been linked to autoimmune disorders and allergies.
There are approximately 28 commonly known amino acids with
80% of them being produced in the liver. The remaining 20% of the amino acids
are acquired from the diet and are in the category non essential amino acids.
Essential Amino Acids are amino acids that are not produced
or synthesized in the body.
Non Essential Amino Acids are produced or synthesized
naturally in the body.
The essential amino acids are: histidine, isoleucine,
leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine. |