Proteins are built of 22 amino acids, 9 of which are considered ESSENTIAL because humans must get them from foods, as they are not formed in our bodies.
*My opinion on the amino acid/protein discussion is that foods that come from living animals are the most complete sources with the highest levels of these nutrients. However, I am a big advocate of vegetarian and vegan diets if they are well organized, balanced, and originating from a holistic perspective of health of people, earth, and ecosystems.
In Becoming Vegan, the authors state that "In our tissues, the EAAs (Essential Amino Acids) from animal foods and plant foods are indistinguishable," because the amino acids in all animals originally came from plants.
Supplementing the diet with single or multiple amino acids must be done with caution for vegetarians/vegans, as many amino acid supplements come from egg whites. (Becoming Vegan, p 236)
*"Amino acid deficiencies appear more commonly as a result of total protein deficiencies." (Complete Guide to Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements p 210)
*"Amino acids are a chemical group containing nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen. The amino acids form the chief structure of proteins, several of which are essential for human growth, development and nutrition."
Lysine stands out because it is an amino acid I have used to supplement my diet for its stress reducing effect. However, I have not found any resources suggesting that it actually does this, except in cases of severe deficiencies, where symptoms include apathy, lethargy, and weakness. Other symptoms of Lysine deficiencies include: anemia, bloodshot eyes, poor appetite, inability to concentrate, weight loss, and others. (Prescription for Nutritional Healing p 115)
Lysine promotes growth, tissue repair, production of antibodies, hormones, and enzymes, and also reduces the symptoms of herpes viruses. It also aides in calcium absorption, nitrogen balance, and lowers high serum triglyceride levels Lysine can be found in:
Cheese, Eggs, Fish, Lima Beans, Milk, Potatoes, Red Meat, Soy, Yeast
Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body. It is possibly the most essential of all the amino acids, as it is absolutely necessary for creation of a variety of the body's molecules, and is also considered to be fuel for the brain. It is a vital amino acid which through several transformations produces GABA, which is necessary for sustaining proper brain function and mental activity (Prescription for Nutrition Healing p 109). Other important functions of glutamine include: building block for DNA and RNA, balances pH, promotes healthy digestion, helps build/maintain muscle, and can treat arthritis, autoimmune diseases, ulcers, connective tissue damage/disorders, and enhances mental functioning on a great number of levels. It can be useful for people who suffer addictions and cravings, as it reduces desire for sugar and alcohol.
Glutamine is found in plant and animal foods, but is easily destroyed in cooking, and if the powdered form becomes wet it will turn into ammonia. It should be avoided by people who have liver and kidney disfunction that causes ammonia to buildup.
Good sources of glutamine: whey protein, eggs, spinach, parsley.
*Arginine is an interesting amino acid because it plays an important rolein detoxifying the body, as well as in healing wounds and supporting immune functions. It relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow. Unfortunately it should be avoided by individuals with herpes viruses as it can increase risk of breakouts.
Arginine is beneficial because it: increases metabolism of fat cells, builds muscle, inhibits cancer, increases sperm counts, and speeds wound healing. It can be found in the following foods:
brown rice, carob, chocolate, nuts,oatmeal, popcorn, raisins, raw cereals, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, whole wheat products. The vitamins and supplements guide I use suggests that Arginine supplements should be avoidedbypeople with food allergies, poor nutrition, or bone diseases, without first consulting a health practitioner.
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