Amino Acids
Amino acids are a vital part of human existence. They play varying roles in maintaining the body’s metabolism, and they are found in protein-rich foods. Protein, once consumed, is transported to a number of organs in the body which include skin, eyes, heart, bones, and muscles. Therefore, knowing how to gain the most out of your amino acids is a great way to achieve your fitness goals and maintain a healthy body.
There are approximately 20 - 22 types of amino acids, of which eight to ten are considered essential. The most important point to note is to maintain a balanced diet, so that your body is able to absorb the most vital amino acids quickly and easily. Here is a brief description of four of the main amino acids, their function in the human body, and where they are found.
Histidine- This acid helps digestion and maintains the growth and repair of cells. It can be found in dairy, meat, chicken, fish, rice, and wheat.
Lysine- This acid helps calcium absorption, which results in stronger bones, teeth, and muscles. You can find this acid in cheese, milk, eggs, yeast, potatoes, and lima beans.
Phenylalanine- This acid helps concentration and memory and can be found in foods such as dairy, almonds, avocados, nuts, and seeds.
Methionine- This acid removes excess fat from the blood stream and can be found in foods such as meat, fish, garlic, lentils, onions, yogurt, and seeds.
