There are very few groups of nutrients as crucial to health as the amino acids. Because they are the building blocks of protein, they comprise a significant portion of the body. Three-fourths of the body (not including water) is amino acids. Most neurotransmitters and hormones are also made up of amino acids. They are essential to metabolism and any body function involving a chemical reaction.
There are 28 known amino acids. Eight are designated as “essential” meaning the body cannot produce them on its own so they must be gotten from the diet. Protein sources can be broken down into amino acids making dairy products, meat, fish, poultry, nuts, legumes, and eggs good sources. When the diet is insufficient to supply the needed amino acids or when the body’s supply is depleted by stress, infection, exercise, or age, supplements may be a good addition. MaxAmino 1200 by Vitabase is a quality source of amino acids.
MaxAmino 1200 contains all 8 essential amino acids: tryptophan, lysine, methionine, phenylaline, threonine, valine, leucine, and isoleucine. It also includes 11 other common amino acids that are non-essential (the body can produce them in small amounts). There are some claims that amino acid supplementation can impact a variety of ailments from depression to chronic fatigue syndrome to obesity. The use of amino acids supplements grew in popularity in the 1990s as the fitness craze took hold. Exercising builds muscles which involves a process of breaking down protein and then rebuilding protein with amino acids.
An amino acid supplement may be helpful in a number of different settings. Athletes may benefit in muscle building and endurance. Older people may benefit with improved heart and circulatory function. Some naturopaths recommend amino acids for treating chronic fatigue syndrome. Individuals prone to depression or anxiety may also benefit. In general, amino acid supplementation may help boost immune system function.
Supplementation is often recommended by alternative health practitioners for those with poor diets, vegetarians with diets low in protein, athletes, individuals under high stress and those with moderate to high alcohol consumption.