Non-Essential Amino Acids

The body builds proteins from a set of “blocks” of amino acids consisting of twenty amino acids. Once these amino acids are joined together into protein, the body uses that protein to build muscles. There are eight essential amino acids which are the ones that cannot be produced by the body from other available resources and therefore needs to be supplied as part of one’s diet, it includes: tryptophan, lysine, methionine, phenylalaine, threonine, valine, leucine, and isoleucine.

The amino acids that the body normally produces and can be found in the body proteins are called non-essential amino acids. They are called non-essential because they are not needed in the diet, however it is possible that some people have metabolic deficiencies and may have low production of certain amino acids. The particular functions usually performed by these amino acids are not fulfilled so the need for supplements may arise. One common non-essential amino acid that often gets supplemented is Glutamic acid in the form of glutamine.

Here are the non-essential amino acids:

Alanine is one of the non-essential amino acids that is an important source of energy for muscle tissue, central nervous system and the brain. It strengthens the immune system by producing antibodies; it also helps in the metabolism of organic acids and sugars.

Aspartic Acid aids in the removal of harmful ammonia from the body. Ammonia can be harmful to the central nervous system once it enters the circulatory system because it acts as a highly toxic substance. Aspartic acid from recent studies has shown to increase resistance to fatigue and increase endurance.

Glycine is one of the non-essential amino acids that is important in manufacturing of the hormones that are responsible for strong immune system. They help trigger the release of oxygen to the energy required in cell-making process.

Glutamic Acid is believed to be nature’s “brain food” which improves mental capacities. It helps in the control of alcoholism, craving for sugar, and schizophrenia. It also assists in speeding up the healing of ulcers, and lifting fatigue.

Arginine is one of the non-essential amino acids that promotes wound healing and regenerations of the liver. It is considered to be essential for the optimal growth of muscles and tissue repair. It also causes the release of growth hormones. Studies have shown that Arginine improves immune responses to viruses, bacteria and tumor cells.

Tyrosine promotes the healthy functioning of the adrenal, pituitary glands, and the thyroid. It improves memory as it transmits nerve impulses to the brain. It increase mental alertness and helps overcome depression.

Taurine aids in the clearing of free radical wastes and helps in the stabilization of the excitability membranes which is very vital in the control of epileptic seizures. Taurine is one of the factors that are needed for the control of many biochemical changes during the aging process.

Cystine is a necessary non-essential amino acid for the formation of the skin which aids in the recovery from burns and surgical operations. It functions as an antioxidant and is a controlling aid to the body in protecting against pollution and radiation.