Amino Acids, Basic Building Blocks of Protein, Information
Amino acids are the natural, basic building blocks of protein. During digestion, the body breaks down protein-rich foods into amino acids. The amino acids are then used by the body to support vital functions and are particularly important during strenuous activities such as golf.
There are twenty amino acids that make up all of the body’s proteins. Nine “essential” amino acids are required from your diet because your body does not produce them, while the remaining eleven “non-essential” amino acids are synthesized by your body through the metabolism of other amino acids. The amino acids are used throughout the body to build, repair, and support the heart, liver, skeletal muscle, etc.
Amino Vital® contains BCAAs, arginine and glutamine.
The branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) comprise the three essential amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine. BCAAs are especially critical to athletes because they help to build muscle or are burned as a fuel to produce energy for the muscle. In addition, BCAAs help to block tryptophan from producing an excessive amount of serotonin that can make you feel tired and sleepy during exercise.
Arginine and glutamine are both non-essential amino acids that play a critical role in recovery for athletes. Arginine promotes the removal of ammonia that is produced by the body during exercise and can slow down the recovery process. Glutamine supports the immune system and helps maintain good health. Studies have shown that insufficient recovery time and overtraining impacts the body’s glutamine levels and can make you more susceptible to common colds and sickness.
Visit the Amino Acid Encyclopedia to learn more about amino acids.
