If you’ve ever read anything health, fitness, nutritional or sport related, chances are you’ve come across the term “amino acids” before. But what actually are amino acids and why do we need them? Read on to find out!
What are amino acids?
Amino acids are a group of 20 organic compounds that share specific formation traits. Because they play such a foundational role in the body they’re often referred to as the ‘building blocks’ of proteins in both plants and animals and are involved in many chemical reactions throughout the body. Broadly speaking, amino acids help to maintain the body’s normal functions.
Types of amino acids
There are three different types of amino acids that the body needs and they’re grouped into these three categories because of the different ways we get them, and how they’re used.
1. Essential amino acids
Our body cannot produce these types of amino acids so they need to be obtained through an external source, usually through food.
2. Nonessential amino acids
Our body naturally produces these types of amino acids throughout the day and so we don’t need to acquire them from an external source such as food.
3. Conditional amino acids
These amino acids are produced only under specific circumstances - typically when your body is fighting off an illness or dealing with stress.
Why do we need amino acids?
As previously mentioned, we need amino acids to maintain normal functions within the body so it’s extremely important that we get enough in our system every single day. Amino acids are responsible for so many different things including:
- Helping to create and grow muscles, connective tissue, and skin
- Helping to maintain muscle tone and tissue strength
- General healing and repair
- Normal digestion
- Providing energy to the body
- Helping to produce hormones to regulate moods
- Producing neurotransmitters
- Maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails
As well as helping our body to function normally on the day-to-day, amino acids are also extremely beneficial in two specific areas:
- Exercise & athleticism
- Anti-ageing
How do I ensure I get enough amino acids?
Many people can get enough amino acids through their food, providing they’re eating a well-balanced diet.
Foods that contain all nine essential amino acids are called complete proteins and include:
- Beef
- Poultry
- Fish
- Eggs
- Dairy
- Soy
- Quinoa
- Buckwheat
Foods that contain some but not all the essential amino acids are called incomplete proteins and include:
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Beans
However, there are some people that can benefit from amino acids supplementation. For example, athletes looking to enhance their physical performance, vegans and vegetarians, those with food intolerances and those who are concerned about ageing.
Supplementing amino acids
A fantastic way to boost your body’s levels of amino acids is through a vitamin infusion. This is administered through an IV drip and sends a powerful cocktail of amino acids and other essential vitamins and minerals straight into your bloodstream. Our NAD+ Super Vitamin Immune Booster is a specialised vitamin drip that not only contains amino acids, but the powerful antioxidant glutathione and the miracle molecule NAD+.
Benefits of this particular vitamin infusion include:
- Boost immune system & physical energy
- Deter Illness
- Fortify against Seasonal Virus Boost
- Improve wellbeing
- Increase physical and mental ability
- Support fitness, aesthetic and weight loss goals
Contact the clinic to find out more about this amazing vitamin drip.
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