The body uses amino acids to produce the proteins it needs. The acids
come in two varieties: essential and nonessential. Essential acids are those that the body cannot
produce on its own and therefore derives from food. Nonessential acids are
those the body can produce if the diet doesn’t include them. There are 20
essential acids, including histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine,
cysteine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine.
Nonessentials include alanine, aspartic acid, arginine, citrulline, glutamic
acid, glycine, hydroxyglumatic acid, hydroxyproline, norleucine, proline, and serine. ......continued below [click here]
Amino acids are required for the production of enzymes and hormones like
insulin, as well as for the health of hair, skin, and nails, glands, tendons,
ligaments, and muscles. Nails in particular suffer from a lack of the proper
nutrients, often resulting in unnecessary damage to the nails. The essential
acids also help the brain make neurotransmitters, chemicals that allow parts
of the brain to communicate with one another.
Deficiencies of amino acids are often caused by a diet low in protein,
though trauma, illness, infection and certain medications can all result in
deficiencies. A blood test can determine whether your body is suffering from
such a deficiency, and, if it is, a dietary supplement can easily solve the
problem. In addition, supplements of amino acids have been shown to help fight
heart disease, protect against stroke, lower blood pressure, reduce sugar cravings,
build immunity, and even fight cancer.
There are no known interactions with other supplements or medications.
Nevertheless, one should exercise some caution if taking supplements of amino
acids for a long period of time. This will guarantee the proper balance that the
body needs. If you take a supplement for over a month, be sure to take it as part
of an acid complex. An acid complex may be especially useful for those seeking
nourishment for their hair, skin, and nails and for those whose nails are brittle
or discolored. To be safe, consult a doctor if you intend long-term supplementation.
