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surpo-nutrition · 2 years ago

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Essential Amino Acids: The Building Blocks for Optimal Health and Wellness

What are Essential Amino Acids?

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs. Protein-rich foods like meat & eggs are excellent sources of amino acids. Certain amino acids are also taken as supplements by some people looking for a natural way to improve athletic performance, muscle growth and recovery.There are over 20 different amino acids, and 8 of them cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained through the diet. These are called the "Essential Amino Acids," which include isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine—all of which are essential to human health, athletic performance, and general well-being. These essential amino acids play important roles in various processes in the body, including protein synthesis, immune function, and hormone regulation.

In this blog, we will explore and focus on the benefits of essential amino acids and how they can support optimal health and performance. From improved muscle building and recovery to better mental clarity and energy, essential amino acids offer a wide range of benefits that cannot be ignored. So if you want to feel your best and perform at your peak, read on to learn more about the power of essential amino acids!

1. Protein Synthesis

Essential amino acids play a crucial role in the synthesis of proteins, which are needed for the growth, repair, and maintenance of tissues and organs. When you consume protein, your body breaks it down into individual amino acids, which are then used to build and repair tissues in the body. This process is especially important for athletes, as exercise can cause microtears in muscle tissue. Getting enough protein and essential amino acids can help repair these tears and promote muscle growth and recovery. They also help make enzymes, hormones, and other substances that your body needs to function well.

2. Energy Production

Essential amino acids are used by the body to produce energy. When the body needs energy, it breaks down stored fats and sugars and uses them as fuel. Amino acids can also be used as an energy source, especially during prolonged exercise or when the body is in a fasting state primarily through a process called gluconeogenisis. However, it is important to note that ATP*, glycogen*, and fats are the primary sources of energy for the body, and a diet that includes a variety of micronutrients is important for overall health and energy production.

*ATP is a substance present in all living cells that provides energy for many metabolic processes.

*Glycogen is a form of glucose, a source of energy that your body stores primarily in your liver and muscles.

3. Immune System Function

Essential amino acids are necessary for the proper functioning of the immune system and are involved in the production of antibodies, immune cells, and other immune system components. For example, the amino acid lysine has been shown to support immune system function by inhibiting the replication of viruses and helping to reduce inflammation. Supplements with lysine are becoming widely recognized as a natural aid to improving the body's immune system. Additionally, other essential amino acids such as tryptophan and arginine have been shown to have immune-boosting effects.

4. Brain Function

Essential amino acids can help with brain function in several ways. They are crucial for the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain and play a vital role in mood, cognition, and behavior. According to Lieberman, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, the central nervous system requires a number of amino acids found in protein foods. Amino acids such as tryptophan, tyrosine, and arginine are used by the brain for the synthesis of various neurotransmitters and neuromodulators.

Essential amino acids also play a role in the development and maintenance of brain cells, including neurons and glial cells. They are involved in the production of proteins that are essential for brain function, such as myelin, which is a protective layer around nerve fibers that helps with the transmission of nerve impulses. Additionally, essential amino acids have been shown to have a positive effect on mood and cognitive function, possibly due to their role in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Overall, maintaining an adequate intake of essential amino acids is important for optimal brain function and overall health.

5. Heart Health

Essential amino acids play a crucial role in maintaining the proper function of the cardiovascular system by helping to regulate blood pressure and heart rate, as well as aiding in the production of proteins that are necessary for healthy heart function. Some specific essential amino acids that may be particularly beneficial for heart health include arginine, which helps to dilate blood vessels and improve blood flow, and taurine, which helps to regulate heart contractions and maintain electrolyte balance in the body. Additionally, consuming a diet rich in essential amino acids may help to lower the risk of developing certain cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension and coronary artery disease.

6. Muscle Growth and Repair

Essential amino acids are essential for the growth and repair of muscles. They are involved in the production of collagen, which is a protein that helps to hold muscles together while also helping to reduce muscle breakdown during exercise or injury. In addition, essential amino acids stimulate the production of hormones, such as insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and leucine in particular, increases MTOR signaling leading to higher MPS - muscle protein synthesis. Both are very crucial for muscle growth. Therefore, adequate intake of essential amino acids is important for optimizing muscle growth and repair.

7. Hormone Production

Some essential amino acids, such as tryptophan, tyrosine, and lysine, are precursors for the synthesis of various hormones, including serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, thyroid hormones, and growth hormone. These hormones play important roles in various bodily functions, including mood, energy, metabolism, and growth. Therefore, sufficient intake of essential amino acids is important for maintaining proper hormone balance and function.

8. Bone Health

Essential amino acids play a crucial role in bone health. They help to form and maintain bone tissue by providing the building blocks for bon collagen and other bone proteins. These amino acids also help to regulate bone metabolism and promote bone formation. Essential amino acids, such as lysine and methionine synthesize collagen, a major component of bone tissue, while arginine and histidine have been shown to have a positive effect on bone growth and repair. Essential amino acids also help to prevent bone loss and osteoporosis by improving bone density and strength. It is important to consume a high protein diet that includes all essential amino acids to support optimal bone health.

9. Skin Health

Certain key and essential amino acids can help with skin health by supporting the synthesis of proteins that are important for maintaining the structure and function of the skin. Lysine synthesizes collagen, a protein that helps to maintain the structural integrity of the skin; methionine synthesizes keratin, a protein that helps to protect and strengthen the skin; histidine synthesizes histamine, a chemical that helps to regulate inflammation in the skin; and arginine synthesizes nitric oxide, a molecule that helps to maintain blood flow to the skin and improve its elasticity while playing an important role in the maintenance and regulation of the skin and the integrity of its environment.

10. Weight Management

Essential amino acids can potentially help with weight management in a few ways: A) Essential amino acids play a vital role in the synthesis of protein in the body. When you consume enough protein, your body is better able to build and repair tissues, including muscles. This can help increase metabolism and promote weight loss. B) Essential amino acids can also help increase feelings of fullness and satisfaction after a meal, which can lead to reduced food intake and weight loss. C) Additionally, essential amino acids are involved in the production of various hormones, including ghrelin and leptin, which regulate appetite and energy expenditure.

Consuming enough essential amino acids can help regulate these hormones and potentially promote weight loss. It's important to note that while essential amino acids may have some weight management benefits, they should not be relied upon as a sole means of weight loss. A high protein, nutrient dense diet and regular physical activity are crucial for weight management.

11. Sleep

There is some evidence to suggest that essential amino acids may help improve sleep quality. According to Medical News Today, tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is important for the production of serotonin in the body. It is also key to brain function and has a role in healthy sleep. People cannot make tryptophan in their bodies, so must obtain it from their diet. Additionally, GABA (a neurotransmitter that is synthesized from the amino acid glutamine) has been shown to have a calming effect on the brain and may help to promote sleep.

12. Mood and Mental Health

Essential amino acids can potentially have a positive effect on mood and mental health. Some essential amino acids, such as tryptophan and tyrosine, have been shown to have a positive effect on mood and mental health. Tryptophan is converted to serotonin in the body, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation. Tyrosine is converted to dopamine, another neurotransmitter that is involved in motivation and pleasure. Low levels of certain essential amino acids have been linked to conditions such as depression and anxiety. Supplementing these amino acids may help improve mood and mental health in some individuals.

SURPO Takeaways

Essential amino acids play a vital role in maintaining overall health and wellness. They help to build and repair tissues, produce hormones and enzymes, and support a strong immune system. They are also necessary for muscle growth and maintenance, and can even help with weight loss efforts. While essential amino acids can be obtained through a high protein diet, they can also be supplemented through EAA drinks and protein powders. Amino Hydrate+ by SURPO has an EAA formula which results in significantly higher absorption rates than any protein powder or other EAA drink. Overall, incorporating essential amino acids into your diet can provide numerous benefits for both physical and mental health.

Amino Hydrate +

Amino Hydrate+ helps replenish lost minerals & electrolytes while supplementing all the key amino acids your body needs to perform at its best. This combination will help you stay hydrated, prevent muscle breakdown, aid in athletic recovery, boost energy levels, & support muscle growth & overall health.

Higher Athletic Performance

When you engage in strenuous or prolonged physical activity, your body depletes its energy reserves & starts to break down muscle protein to convert its essential amino acids into energy. This process also leads to a decrease in muscle protein production, resulting in muscle weakness & reduced exercise performance. Amino Hydrate + replenishes lost electrolytes needed for energy & endurance while supplementing all the key amino acids needed to prevent muscle breakdown.

Optimum Hydration

The negative effects of dehydration can be avoided through proper hydration. Hydration involves not only drinking water but also replenishing the body with essential electrolytes. Amino Hydrate + offers better hydration over water alone. It enhances muscle water absorption & retention and replaces the vital electrolytes that are lost due to sweating. Our amino acid powder fully hydrates your body, keeping you fueled to tackle even the most intense workout while reaching your greater Survival Potential!

Workout Recovery and Muscle Growth

Essential Amino Acids activate a certain pathway in the body that stimulates muscle protein synthesis while decreasing muscle soreness & exercise fatigue. Our unique Amino Hydrate+ formula has been thoughtfully designed to replenish lost electrolytes while supplementing all the key amino acids in your body. This combination will help you to prevent muscle breakdown, support muscle growth, and is perfect any time during the day your muscles need extra recovery.

SURPO exists to help people fundamentally obtain higher levels of survival across all aspects of life and that experience begins with physical health. We strive to empower individuals to live a healthier, more active lifestyle through the promotion of proper nutrition. Our supplement is specifically designed to help you reach your health and fitness goals. Good hydration and high-quality supplements make all the difference in the world and have the power to transform your life.

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surpo-nutrition · 2 years ago

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9 Essential Amino Acids: Function, Health Benefits, and Food Sources

As health enthusiasts, we understand the importance of having a balanced diet that includes all the essential nutrients our body needs to function properly. Among these essential nutrients are Amino Acids, which play a vital role in maintaining our overall health and well-being.

Amino acids are the fundamental components of proteins and are essential for many critical functions in the body. These compounds are responsible for the formation of important structures such as proteins, hormones, and neurotransmitters. To obtain enough amino acids, it is important to consume protein-rich foods like meat, fish, and seafood. Additionally, some individuals take amino acid supplements as a natural way to boost their mood and/or enhance their athletic performance.

Our bodies require a diverse range of amino acids to maintain optimal health and function. Although there are approximately 500 different amino acids found in nature, only 20 of these are used to create the proteins found within the human body. Though each of these amino acids plays a crucial role in our well-being, 9 of them are deemed particularly essential for our survival.

These 9 essential amino acids include leucine, valine, isoleucine, lysine, threonine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, methionine, and histidine. In this blog, we will be discussing the definition, health benefits, and food sources of these essential amino acids to help you understand the significance of including them in your diet.

1. Leucine

Leucine is one of the three branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)** along with isoleucine and valine. It plays a vital role in protein synthesis, making it important for muscle growth and repair. It can help preserve muscle mass during periods of caloric restriction or increased physical activity. Leucine is also involved in the regulation of blood sugar levels and the stimulation of wound healing. Additionally, studies have suggested that leucine may have the potential to improve bone health, and may play a role in preventing obesity.

A wide variety of healthy, tasty foods contain leucine, including eggs, beef, tuna, and salmon. These good food sources of leucine are all easy to incorporate into your diet. Leucine is also available in supplement form and is often used by athletes, bodybuilders, and other fitness enthusiasts to enhance muscle growth and recovery via a BCAA or EAA drink.

**BCAAs are a group of three amino acids that have a distinct branching structure at the molecular level. These amino acids are metabolized by the body and used as a source of energy for muscle tissue. BCAAs, which are found in high concentrations of muscle protein, have been recently recognized as vital to muscle health.

2. Valine

Like leucine, valine is classified as a branched-chain amino acid (BCAA). This essential amino acid is commonly used by athletes and bodybuilders as it helps prevent muscle breakdown, enhances athletic performance, and helps supply the muscles with extra glucose for energy production during intense exercise or workouts.

Valine promotes the growth and repair of muscle tissue, which can lead to an increase in muscle mass and strength. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes during intense exercise. Additionally, valine helps to stimulate the formation of hormones, which can aid in the body's overall health and well-being.

Valine can be found in a variety of food sources, including red meat like lamb and beef & dairy products too, especially cottage cheese and yogurt. Eggs, turkey, and chicken; fish, including wild-caught salmon and trout are some other good sources. To ensure that you're getting enough valine, be sure to incorporate these foods into your diet regularly.

Additionally, supplements like Amino Hydrate + which contains Valine, among the other essential amino acids, are commonly taken by weightlifters and performance athletes as part of their workout routines.

3. Isoleucine

Isoleucine, as one of the BCAAs, is also critical to the physiological functions of your whole body. It helps with growth, immunity, protein metabolism, and fatty acid metabolism. Isoleucine has a role in the detoxification of nitrogenous waste like ammonia, which is then excreted from the body by the kidneys. It is also necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin and the production of red blood cells, making it a crucial amino acid in the process of recovering from blood loss or anemia.

Isoleucine is also commonly taken by some bodybuilders and athletes, as it helps decrease post-workout muscle damage and soreness. According to a systemic review published in 2017 in the Journal of Nutrients, some studies have shown that BCAA supplementation can be successful at reducing exercise-induced muscle damage. Moreover, according to Annie Price, a Certified Holistic Health Coach, the isoleucine amino acid is also believed to mediate glucose uptake into a cell and break it down into energy. This specific isoleucine function is why it may help enhance athletic performance.

Animal-based isoleucine food sources include yogurt, tuna, lean chicken breast, lean pork chops, beef, cod, and haddock.

4. Lysine

Lysine is an essential amino acid that helps build muscle tissue, prevent cold sores, maintain a healthy immune system, produce enzymes, antibodies, and healthy hormones, and even reduce feelings of anxiety and levels of the stress hormone cortisol in some people.Additionally, lysine also plays a crucial part in the synthesis of collagen, a protein necessary for bones and connective tissues, including skin, hair, tendons, and cartilage, keeping your skin, hair, and bones healthy.

Other benefits include preventing osteoporosis and bone loss, regulating blood pressure, mitigating artery plaque buildup, assisting athletes in recovering from strenuous workouts, and building and developing muscle among bodybuilders.

Foods that will help people meet their daily lysine requirements include chicken, cottage cheese, parmesan, brewer’s yeast, red meat, fish such as tuna, cod, or sardines, eggs, seafood such as mussels, prawns, and oysters to name a few.

Moreover, supplements are also a common source of amino acids because they're convenient to use and easy to find at health food stores or online. Supplements usually come in powder form, like Surpo Amino Hydrate +, just add 1 scoop to 12-16 oz of water and you will get the dose of lysine your body needs for maximum performance and overall health. This product can be taken at any time of the day or on an empty stomach.

5. Threonine

Threonine is an essential amino acid that plays a vital role in the formation of structural proteins such as collagen and elastin, which are important for maintaining the strength and elasticity of skin, hair, and nails. Threonine is important for the proper functioning of the nervous system and has been shown to promote a healthy immune system. Additionally, threonine helps to maintain the proper balance of proteins in the body and aids in the absorption of nutrients.

It is important to consume adequate amounts of threonine through diet, as a deficiency can lead to poor immune function, skin and hair issues, and problems with the liver and nervous system. Some food sources of threonine include chicken, fish, dairy products, and eggs.

6. Phenylalanine

The human body requires phenylalanine, an essential amino acid, in order to function properly. It is a building block of proteins and is important for the formation of important neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are responsible for regulating mood and behavior. Phenylalanine can help improve memory and concentration. It also plays a role in the production of melanin, a pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes.

Phenylalanine has been found to improve mood and cognitive function, making it beneficial for those with depression or anxiety. It may also help reduce pain and inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Additionally, phenylalanine has been found to improve wound healing and skin health, making it beneficial for those with skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Food sources high in phenylalanine include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. It's also important to note that phenylalanine can be found in a different form called aspartame, which is commonly used in artificial sweeteners. People with phenylketonuria (PKU) are advised to avoid foods containing aspartame, as their bodies cannot break down the phenylalanine in the sweetener, leading to a buildup of the amino acid in the body.

7. Tryptophan

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is involved in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. Tryptophan is responsible for healthier and better-quality sleep, relief from depression and anxiety, increased emotional well-being and strengthened pain tolerance. Tryptophan supplementation improves muscle development, and it has previously been shown that it has a significant impact on muscle mass via its metabolite serotonin.

Tryptophan is found in meats such as turkey and chicken. It is also found in eggs, bananas, cheese, fish, chocolate, dried dates, and milk. Tryptophan is often found in high-protein foods such as these, but it can also be taken as a dietary supplement. The amount of l-tryptophan in these foods is small compared to supplements.

However, it is important to note that supplementing with tryptophan alone may not be as effective as getting it from food sources or as part of a balanced diet, and high doses of tryptophan supplements can be harmful. It's always best to consult a healthcare professional if you are considering taking this supplement.

8. Methionine

Methionine is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including protein synthesis, detoxification, and the production of other essential nutrients like glutathione and creatine. Methionine is involved in the detoxification of heavy metals, pesticides, and other harmful substances. It also helps to prevent the buildup of fat in the liver. It is also essential for the production of new proteins, which are important for the growth and repair of tissues.

Additionally, methionine is necessary for the production of collagen, which is a protein that provides structure to skin, hair, and nails, and is involved in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play a role in mood regulation.

Some of the best sources of methionine, with high concentrations, are found in red meat, chicken, and turkey. It is also found in eggs, dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, some nuts, and seeds, like sesame seeds and sunflower seeds. It's important to note that a balanced diet that includes a variety of protein sources will provide enough methionine for most people. However, those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet may need to pay extra attention to their methionine intake.

9. Histidine

Histidine is a nutritionally essential amino acid that plays a vital role in a variety of pathophysiological and physiological processes. It plays a crucial role in the maintenance of myelin sheaths that protect your nerve cells while metabolizing the key wake-promoting neurotransmitter called histamine. Histamine supports and reinforces your immune system and inflammatory response, and is vital for gastric secretion, sexual functions, and the production of blood cells. Additionally, histidine also plays a key role in the formation of collagen, which is necessary for maintaining healthy skin and hair.

Histidine is an amino acid that was traditionally considered non-essential, meaning that it could be produced by the body from other amino acids. However, recent research has shown that histidine may play a crucial role in certain physiological processes, such as immune function, blood vessel health, and neurotransmitter production. As a result, histidine is now considered to be conditionally essential, meaning that under certain conditions (such as during growth or development) the body may not be able to produce enough histidine on its own and it may need to be obtained from the diet.

Histidine can be made by the body by converting other amino acids, such as lysine and methionine, into histidine. However, this process can be limited by the availability of these other amino acids, as well as other nutrients such as vitamin B6 and zinc. By consuming adequate amounts of the original 8 essential amino acids, as well as other key nutrients, the body can produce enough histidine to meet its needs.

It's important to note that while histidine is considered conditionally essential, it is not considered as essential as the other 8 amino acids that are required in larger amounts and cannot be synthesized by the body. Therefore, it's important to include a variety of protein sources in the diet to obtain all essential amino acids.

Foods rich in histidine are generally protein-rich foods such as meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. It is also present in some spices and herbs, like basil, thyme, and oregano.

SURPO Takeaways

Essential amino acids are an important component of a healthy diet. They are essential because our bodies cannot produce them on their own and must obtain them through our diet. These essential amino acids play a vital role in maintaining optimal health and well-being. From helping to build and repair muscles to supporting the immune system, these amino acids are necessary for many bodily functions.

Food sources such as eggs, fish, poultry, beef, and dairy products are excellent sources of essential amino acids. However, vegetarians and vegans can also obtain these essential amino acids through plant-based sources such as legumes, nuts, and seeds.

It's essential to note that a balanced diet is crucial for obtaining all the essential amino acids. Therefore, it's essential to consume a variety of foods that are rich in these nutrients. If you're concerned about your dietary intake, it's always best to speak with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional.

Amino Hydrate +

Amino Hydrate+ intra workout & hydration powder replenishes lost minerals and electrolytes needed for endurance and physical and mental energy. Formulated with 8 Essential Amino Acids (EAAs), this Pre Workout Powder & Post Workout Recovery Drink assists in muscle recovery and growth, fueling your fitness journey! Amino Hydrate’s EAAs have an unparalleled 99% absorption rate and are already broken down in the correct ratios for optimal utilization, making it ideal to consume while training.

This hydration drink is an amino acids supplement for men and women that allows you to train harder and longer in the gym or on the field—an ideal hydration electrolyte and amino-heavy pre-workout with no stimulants and for an after-workout recovery drink! Our hydration supplements for men and women fully hydrate your body, keeping you fueled to tackle even the most intense workout.

Unlike ordinary hydration electrolytes and amino acid nutritional supplements, this workout powder will help you reach your body and fitness goals. Our EAA Supplement (which contains the bcaas) increases metabolic rate and muscle protein synthesis and provides 99% NNU (amino acid absorption) to support athletic recovery and overall performance!

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