How Amino Acids Work
In order to make sure our bodies get the right sustenance, we must understand our make-up and how organic compounds like this protein builder plays a role in shaping them. The breakdown of vitamins and nutrients isn’t possible without amino acids, which have the challenging task of keeping toxins away from the brain so our bodies can remain healthy.
The Structure of Amino Acids
Amino acids are made in chains comprised of amino acid molecules that are connected. The bond formed between more than one amino acid is referred to as a peptide bond. There’s two types of chains: a peptide and a polypeptide. Polypeptide chains are longer than peptide chains. Although this is the normal structure, it’s important to know that several amino acid molecules also occur singly if they’re not linked to other organic molecules. The main structure involves three groups for amino acids: an amino group, a carboxylic acid group, and a side chain (also called an R group). The beta amino acids where the amino and carboxyl networks are linked to carbon atoms can be found on the lower parts of the chain. Additionally, there’s another part where a variety of molecules attach themselves. Ultimately, this is what helps amino acids synthesize proteins in our bodies.
- Pure amino acids are known by their colorless, water-soluble crystals.
- Besides breaking down food, amino acids play a critical part in enhancing mental functions since they’re part of the brain’s messaging center.
- The prime elements in amino acids are oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, and hydrogen.
- After water, amino acids are considered the second largest component of cells, tissues, and muscles in the body.
A Life without Amino Acids
Since amino acids are responsible for fusing the proteins we need to survive, our lives would be practically useless without their existence. The body would eventually shut down due to lack of nourishment. As a result, the body would be more vulnerable to diseases, and would suffer from an inability to preserve strength.
Main Functions of Amino Acids
Essential Amino Acids
- Isoleucine – responsible for the formation of hemoglobin
- Leucine – required to lower and regulate blood sugar levels, as well as increasing the production of hormones
- Lysine – aids in bone and collagen growth, and absorbs calcium from the gastric tract
- Methionine – plays a vital role in the detoxification process
- Threonine – ensures fat buildup doesn’t occur in the liver and restores assimilation and body metabolism. Also, it forms elastin, collagen, and tooth enamel.
- Tryptophan – used to treat obesity since it’s responsible for body weight control through the reduction of appetite
- Valine – helps build muscle metabolism activity, maintains appropriate nitrogen balance, and works with Aspartic Acid to repair damaged tissues
Non-essential Amino Acids
- Alanine – Vital component in glucose that enhances glycogen storage
- Arginine – improves heart function
- Aspartic Acid – rejuvenates cell formation and cellular activity
- Cysteine – promotes muscle buildup and protects the liver
- Glutamic Acid – fuels brain activity and assists with transport of potassium into the body’s spinal fluid
- Glutamine – helps preserve a healthy digestive tract by maintaining the right acidic flow and alkaline balance. Also, it increase mental capacity
- Glycine – produces antibodies that strengthens the body’s immune system
- Histidine – helps generate red and white blood cells and thus, is used to treat iron deficiency. Additionally, it’s used to treat ulcers
- Proline – responsible for tissue restoration, collagen formation and blood pressure regulation
- Serine – strengthens heart muscles, as well as tendons and joints, collaborating with vitamin C to ensure the presence of healthy connective tissues
- Taurine – helps restore insulin
- Tyrosine – ensures the adequate function of the thyroid, pituitary, and adrenal glands. It also contributes to hair pigmentation