AMINO ACIDS

Amino Acids are the chemical units or commonly referred to as the ‘building blocks’ of protein. Everything in the body from muscles, tendons, organs, glands, nails and hair are all made up of protein substances and are dependent upon protein for growth, repair and maintenance.

There are a total of 20 Amino Acids, with each one necessary to maintain & support normal body function.  The body can produce 11 of the 20 Amino Acids referred to as “non-essential amino acids”. The other 9 can only be gained through dietary protein intake; these are known as Essential Amino Acids or EAAs.  Amino Acid deficiencies, in particular EAAs can have detrimental effects.

Hence, sufficient Amino Acids need to be included in our everyday diet, as unlike fat, the human body does not store excess amino acids for later use.  If dietary intake is inadequate the body breaks down muscle tissue to meet its amino acid requirements. 

Foods providing the best source of amino acids are animal products such as meat, seafood, eggs and dairy.  Whilst plant protein sources such as nuts & legumes provide amino acids, many are not considered a complete protein source as they are deficient in some EAAs. Hence, people who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet may find it more difficult to meet their daily EAA requirements.

People who are looking to aid lean muscle growth & repair, help athletic performance & recovery and support metabolic processes & immune function may need amino acid supplements.

Supplementation with 100% pure single amino acid powders & blends like Musashi provides a means to assist individuals with heightened amino acid requirements to meet their daily intake needs.