Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are vital to life. Protein is the nutrient that gives structure to virtually every living thing. For a protein to be considered a whole unit it must contain all of its amino acid array. Linking different amino acids together can create over 50,000 types of proteins and 20,000 known enzymes. Each protein has its specific amino acid signature. Approximately 20 commonly known amino acids exist. Within the human body, it is the liver which produces 80 percent of the amino acids we need to sustain life. The remaining 20 percent must be obtained from the diet and are therefore referred to as essential amino acids.
          Amino acids enable vitamins and minerals to act properly within our bio systems If any of these amino acids are missing, the assimilation and utilization of other nutrients will be impaired. Today, amino acid therapy is emerging as an exciting source of therapeutic treatment. Recent studies confirm that certain amino acids when taken singly or in combination can exert the same types of medicinal effects as some prescription drugs.
                          Amino Acid Deficiencies Can Easily Occur
        Once again, the common assumption may be that the majority of Americans get plenty of amino acids through their diets due to their high meat consumption. Just the opposite, however, may be the case. Diets that are not balanced and high on empty carbohydrates can become protein deficient. Balance is the key here. While we are well aware of the perils of a diet that is too high in protein, most of us do not eat quality protein foods. High fat red meats are not the only source of amino acids. Other protein foods, including nuts, beans, soy products, fish and eggs, are excellent sources of protein. Unfortunately the majority of Americans eat diets that are deficient in the total amino acid array we need to maintain our health.

Back to Nutrition ABC's	Your Health is our Concern