Have Fun with Amino Acids
2 min read
All of us have curiosity about vital processes of our body and constantly wonder how they are carried out. Various body systems like digestion, reproduction, respiration etc have always been the object of our research and most interesting is the ongoing growth and development of our body without any outside factor catalyzing or hindering it. Science, to an extent has found the explanation of some of the processes but most of them still seem a mystery to us. There are many topics in the queue with amino acids standing in front as an entity of suspense.
What Are Amino Acids?
An organic acid which has carboxyl group (-COOH) and amino group (-NH2) along with a side chain denoted by –R is called amino acid. Nitrogen, carbon, oxygen and hydrogen are basic constituent members of amino acids.
List of Fundamental Amino Acids
- Valine
- Alanine
- Tyrosine
- Arginine
- Tryptophan
- Asparagines
- Threonine
- Aspartic acid
- Serine
- Cysteine
- Proline
- Glutamine
- Glycine
- Leucine
- Histidine
Functions of Amino Acids
As an important constituent of human body amino acids carry out many important functions, some of which are listed below-
- Build Protein: Amino acids connect to build proteins required by our body as per the data contained in the DNA. The DNA defines various combinations of amino acids which join to build a specific protein.
- Protect Cardiovascular Health: Arginine, an amino acid is used to make nitric oxide, which relaxes muscles in blood vessels lowering the blood pressure. The development of plaque in arteries is inhibited by it hence helping to prevent atherosclerosis.
- Synthesize Neurotransmitters: Tryptophan and tyrosine produce neurotransmitters, and helps keep the stock of neurotransmitters replenished in the body. If your carbohydrate intake is more than normal prescribed value, then tryptophan enters into the brain and makes you sleepy.
Areas of Use of Amino Acids
- Mood, sleep and performance
- Fat- burning
- Menopause
- Diabetes
- Cholesterol
- Virility and libido
- Hair care
- Anti- aging
- Osteoporosis and arthritis
Amino acids are a crucial part of our body and a priceless gift of nature which help not only in keeping our body functions going but also in passing of hereditary features from one generation to next generation. Researchers have discovered about 700 naturally existing amino acids and are working to discover more. All the best and have fun knowing about amino acids.
