Amino Acids, also known as the basic building blocks of proteins, are compounds that play many critical roles in the body. They are needed for vital processes like the building of proteins and the synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters. Whilst the body is able to make non-essential amino acids, it cannot make essential amino acids, which is why you must get them from your diet. You must have all of the amino acids so your body can build a wide variety of proteins it needs. 

At Human Health Hub, we source only the best amino acid supplements of the highest possible quality. They are regarded as some of the very best in the industry.

Amino Acid Supplement FAQs 

What is the Difference Between Essential and Non-Essential Amino Acids? 

Essential amino acids are those that the body cannot produce on its own and must be acquired through diet or supplementation. Alternatively, non-essential amino acids are not required by the body to function properly but still play an important part in overall health. Here are some of the main differences:

Essential Amino Acids  Non-Essential Amino Acids 
9 amino acids out of 20 are thought to be essential  11 out of 20 amino acids are non-essential 
Have to be acquired through food such as soy, quinoa, egg, chicken, meat or vegetable protein Produced within the body from other amino acids and components 
Serves to build and repair muscle tissues  Removes toxins and promotes brain function 

Do Amino Acids Burn Fat? 

According to several studies, a special class of essential amino acids called the branched-chain amino acids have several fat-burning benefits. When combined with resistance training, branched-chain amino acid supplementation has been shown to reduce body fat percentage. Overall, amino acids are a critical part of a balanced high protein diet for fat loss. 

Should I Take Amino Acids if I Workout? 

Taking amino acid supplements can help enhance the metabolism, which promotes cell proliferation. It improves exercise performance as well as functional recovery during exercise. Amino acids also help you perform better by contributing as the energy source and reducing the accumulation of 5-HT (serotonin), the central fatigue substance. 

What are the Benefits of Taking Essential Amino Acid Supplements?

The main advantages of taking essential amino acid supplements include: 

    • Mood Boost – The essential amino acid, Tryptophan is necessary for the production of serotonin, a chemical that acts as a neurotransmitter in your body. Several studies have shown that taking tryptophan supplements may help reduce symptoms of depression and boost mood. 
    • Improve Exercise Performance & Recovery – Many people take valine, leucine, and isoleucine, the three essential BCAAs, to alleviate fatigue, improve athletic performance, and stimulate muscle recovery after exercise. Taking amino acid supplements is a natural way to boost athletic performance and support the body’s detox process. 
    • Helpful For Wound Healing & Surgery Studies have shown that taking amino acid supplements may be helpful for people who are healing after surgery. 

To read more about some of the essential amino acid supplements we offer, take a look at our articles:

How Quickly Do Amino Acids Work? 

Amino acids tend to work quickly in the body. After taking an amino acid supplement like BCAA, BCAA levels in the blood should peak around 30 minutes after consuming. 

For more information surrounding amino acids, take a look at our insightful article, NUTRITION AROUND WORKING OUT AND TRAINING, THE IMPORTANCE OF AMINO ACIDS!

How Many Amino Acids Are There?

There are a total of 20 different amino acids that exist. In fact, all 20 of these amino acids are found in a muscle protein, which is why they are commonly referred to as the building blocks of protein. Of those 20, 9 are essential amino acids, while the remaining 11 are non-essential. 

Are Your Amino Acids Sourced From China? 

No, our amino acid supplements are sourced from the USA. 

When Is The Best Time To Take Amino Acids? 

As amino acids work quickly in the body and BCAA levels peak 30 minutes after consumption, the best time to take an amino acid supplement is just before and during a training session.

To read more, take a look at our article, ‘Should I take Taurine Before Bed?’