AminoIndex: Essential Amino Acids Guide
Discover Essential Amino Acids
Explore how essential amino acids support your health and nutrition. Gain actionable insights and practical advice to make informed decisions for your wellness journey.

A comprehensive guide to understanding amino acids and their benefits.
Welcome to AminoIndex, your gateway to understanding the essential building blocks of protein and their impact on health. From supporting muscle growth to boosting immune function, this guide provides detailed profiles, practical advice, and evidence-based knowledge to help you navigate the world of amino acids with clarity and confidence.
Essential Amino Acids:
A Comprehensive Overview
Explore our detailed table of amino acids to uncover their unique functions and dietary importance. Gain the insights you need to optimize your nutrition and make empowered health decisions.
Amino Acid | Benefit to the Body | Recommended Dose* | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|
Alanine | Energy production and immune support. | Varies by dietary intake. | Link |
Arginine | Supports wound healing, detoxification, and immune function. | 4-6 g for health conditions | Link |
Asparagine | Aids in amino acid synthesis and nervous system function. | Varies by dietary intake. | Link |
Aspartic Acid | Boosts hormone production and supports metabolism. | Varies by dietary intake. | Link |
Cysteine | Antioxidant production and supports healthy skin. | 1-1.5 g | Link |
Glutamine | Fuels immune cells and supports gut health. | 5 g for wellness | Link |
Glutamic Acid | Enhances cognitive function and neurotransmission. | Varies by dietary intake. | Link |
Glycine | Promotes sleep, collagen production, and skin health. | 3-5 g | Link |
Histidine | Essential for tissue repair and blood cell production. | 10-30 mg/kg body weight | Link |
Isoleucine | Involved in muscle metabolism and haemoglobin production. | 19 mg/kg body weight | Link |
Leucine | Supports muscle synthesis, repair, and glucose regulation. | 42 mg/kg body weight | Link |
Lysine | The key for protein synthesis and calcium absorption. | 30-40 mg/kg body weight | Link |
Methionine | Supports metabolism, detoxification, and tissue growth. | 19 mg/kg body weight | Link |
Phenylalanine | The precursor to vital neurotransmitters for mood regulation. | 33 mg/kg body weight | Link |
Proline | Promotes collagen production and wound healing. | Varies by dietary intake. | Link |
Serine | Supports cell membrane integrity and immune function. | Varies by dietary intake. | Link |
Threonine | Essential for protein balance and gut health. | 15 mg/kg body weight | Link |
Tryptophan | The precursor to serotonin aids in mood and sleep regulation. | 4-6 mg/kg body weight | Link |
Tyrosine | The key for hormone production and stress response. | 45-65 mg/kg body weight | Link |
Valine | Facilitates muscle growth and energy production. | 24 mg/kg body weight | Link |
*Recommended doses are general guidelines for adults. Individual needs may vary, and consulting a healthcare provider for personalized advice is recommended.
Amino Acid Derivatives and Supplements
Amino acid derivatives and supplements offer targeted health and performance benefits. From energy metabolism with Acetyl L-Carnitine to muscle endurance with L-Citrulline, these compounds are essential for optimal wellness. Explore their functions, recommended daily doses, and practical applications in the table below.
Consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your unique health needs.
Amino Acid Derivative / Supplement | Benefit to the Body | Recommended Dose* | Learn More |
---|---|---|---|
Acetyl L-Carnitine | Supports energy production, aids in fat metabolism, and has neuroprotective properties. | 500-2,500 mg/day | Link |
Creatine | Supports energy production in muscles and improves high-intensity exercise performance. | 3-5 g/day | Link |
Carnosine | Acts as an antioxidant that benefits muscle endurance and performance. | 500-2,000 mg/day | Link |
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) | The precursor to glutathione supports detoxification and respiratory health. | 600-1,800 mg/day | Link |
Taurine | Vital for cardiovascular function, development of the nervous system, and formation of bile salts. | 500-3,000 mg/day | Link |
Beta-Alanine | Reduces muscle fatigue and supports muscle endurance. | 2-5 g/day | Link |
L-Theanine | Promotes relaxation without sedation and improves focus and calm. | 100-400 mg/day | Link |
L-Arginine | Improves blood flow and heart health and supports nitric oxide production. | 3-6 g/day | Link |
L-Citrulline | Enhances blood flow support sports performance and cardiovascular health. | 1-10 g/day | Link |
L-Glutamine | Supports gut health and immune function, especially under stress or during intense exercise. | 5-10 g/day | Link |
*Note: The recommended doses are general guidelines for adults. Individual needs may vary based on age, sex, health status, and other factors. Consulting a healthcare provider for personalized advice is recommended.
AminoIndex FAQ
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, essential for various bodily functions including muscle growth, repair, and enzyme production. They play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and supporting metabolic processes.
Consuming a balanced diet with a variety of protein sources, such as meat, dairy, legumes, and nuts, can help ensure you receive adequate amino acids. If you have specific dietary restrictions or health conditions, consulting a healthcare provider or a nutritionist is advisable.
While amino acid supplements can offer benefits, excessive intake may lead to adverse effects such as digestive issues, imbalances in amino acid levels, and potential interactions with medications. It's important to follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Yes, certain amino acids like Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine (BCAAs) are known to support muscle protein synthesis, enhance muscle growth, and aid in recovery post-exercise. However, they should complement a balanced diet and regular exercise routine.
Amino acid supplements can be taken before or after workouts to support performance and recovery. It's best to follow the dosage instructions provided on the supplement label or as advised by a healthcare professional to optimize benefits and minimize potential risks.
Conclusion
AminoIndex is your trusted resource for understanding amino acids and their derivatives. Leverage this knowledge to make informed decisions that optimize your health, performance, and overall well-being.
Remember, supplements work best alongside a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Always consult a healthcare professional to tailor recommendations to your unique needs.
The GhamaHealth Team