Examples of Amino Acids (and their function)


The amino acids They are organic compounds that combine to form proteins. In this way, the importance of proteins for humans is manifested in the need for amino acids to exist. For instance: threonine, lysine, glycine.

These are the bricks with which the body permanently reconstitutes its specific proteins consumed by the mere action of living. Physically it is about crystalline substances, almost always with a sweet taste but with an acid character as a basic property.

General functions of amino acids

By the condition of being the main protein producer, amino acids are responsible for a large number of functions of remarkable importance for humans.

First, they provide the body with structure and help in the tissue repair worn and in wound healing. They are responsible for the synthesis of neurotransmitters, the essential elements for transmitting information within the human body.

Amino acids are very important in maintaining and improving cardiovascular health, as well as (on some occasions) in producing the energy necessary for metabolism.

Examples of amino acids

exist twenty four groups of amino acids, of which eight are considered essential or essential for human life, because if any of them are missing, it will not be possible to synthesize any of the proteins in which said amino acid is required; the rest are a little more expendable.

However, some of those that are not essential (those that are produced by the bodies even when they are not obtained from the food consumed) also need to be incorporated into the body in the daily diet, and that is why it is worth listing the list complete of amino acids and their functions, the first eight being the essential ones:

  1. Isoleucine. It is involved with other amino acids in the formation and repair of muscle tissue. Stabilizes and regulates blood sugar and energy levels.
  2. Valine. Useful in the treatment of liver and gallbladder diseases, due to its strong power in tissue repair.
  3. Threonine. Amino acid with the function of maintaining the adequate amount of proteins in the body, and important for the formation of collagen, elastin and enamel in the teeth.
  4. Tryptophan. Essential to promote the release of the neurotransmitter serotonin, essential in the regulation of sleep and pleasure.
  5. Phenylanine. Used by the brain, essential to transmit the signals that it intends to give, promoting alertness and vitality.
  6. Methionine. Powerful antioxidant, which helps prevent the accumulation of fat in different parts of the body.
  7. Leucine. It interacts with other amino acids to promote the healing of muscle tissue, in addition to reducing blood sugar levels.
  8. Lysine. In association with others, it helps the growth and repair of tissues, but also the development of antibodies in the immune system.
  9. Histidine. Found in hemoglobin, it is essential for tissue growth and repair.
  10. Arginine. Important in sexual activity, it also slows the growth of tumors and cancer. Facilitates an increase in muscle mass and a reduction in body fat.
  11. Proline. Involved in the production of collagen, with importance in the repair and maintenance of muscles and bones.
  12. Cysteine. It is involved in detoxification, mainly as a free radical antagonist.
  13. Wisteria. It slows down muscle degeneration, as well as promotes a healthy prostate, the central nervous system and the immune system.
  14. To the girl. Important in the transfer of nitrogen from peripheral tissues to the liver.
  15. Serine. Together with other amino acids, it intervenes in the detoxification of the organism, in cell growth and in the metabolism of fatty acids.
  16. Cystine. It is involved in detoxification, as well as in the synthesis of insulin and in the reactions of certain molecules to insulin.
  17. Glutamic acid. With great importance in the functioning of the central nervous system, and as a stimulant of the immune system.
  18. Ornithine. It helps to request the release of growth hormones, as well as helps in the regeneration of the liver and stimulates the secretion of insulin.
  19. Glutamine. It helps build and maintain muscle tissue, as well as increases brain function and mental activity, helping to maintain the acid-alkaline balance in the body.
  20. Aspartic acid. It increases endurance, and is good for chronic fatigue and depression. It helps to facilitate the circulation of certain minerals through the intestinal mucosa.
  21. Taurine. Strengthens the heart muscle and helps prevent macular degeneration. It is important for the proper utilization of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
  22. Tyrosine. Important amino acid for general metabolism, as it is a precursor of adrenaline and dopamine that regulate mood.