5 HTP (5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan, 5-hydroxytryptophan) 5-HTP (5-Hydroxytryptophan) is an amino acid that is the intermediate step between tryptophan and the important neurotransmitter serotonin, an important neurotransmitter that helps regulate appetite, mood and sleep. 5-HTP is one step closer to serotonin t 5 Hydroxytryptophan is a derivative of the amino acid tryptophan and a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is a key regulator of mood, sleep, and appetite. Serotonin has been shown to alleviate depression, aid in weight loss, prevent migraine headaches, decrease the discomfort of fibromyalgia, improve sleep quality, and reduce anxiety.
5-HTP easily enters the bloodstream and converts to serotonin. Taken orally, 70% of 5-HTP is converted to serotonin, as compared to only 3% of tryptophan.
5-HTP is a direct precursor of the important inhibitory neurotransmitter serotonin. It is a natural substance that converts in the brain into serotonin. Serotonin is secreted in response to mood or emotion swings (Also see Griffonia simplicifolia) More...
Alanine (2-aminopropanoic acid, l-Alanine) Alanine is a non essential amino acid, important for the metabolism of tryptophan and pyridoxine and as a source of energy for muscle tissue and nervous system. where the body uses it as a fuel. Alanine is used by the body to build protein and to produce energy. Alanine strengthens the immune system by producing antibodies, and helps in the metabolism of sugars and organic acids. Alanine is an inhibitory or calming neurotransmitter in brain. Alanine is an important cofactor in the storage of energy from the body's Kreb cycle. Alanine is known to build the immune system and be helpful in the post-injury state.
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Arginine (l-Arginine) Arginine promotes natural growth hormone (GH) release from the pituitary gland. The body needs Arginine to repair itself properly during the state of sleep. Arginine metabolizes body fat and tones muscle, increases sperm count in males, aids in the healing of wounds and has been shown to retard the growth of tumors and cancer, increases protein synthesis (reduce protein catabolism), regulates hormone secretion, and increases polyamine synthesis and thymus function. Arginine supports the immune system as well as maintains a positive nitrogen balance in the body.
(Also see Citrulline, Ornithine) More...
Asparagine Asparagine is a non essential amino acid, Asparagine is made from Aspartic Acid plus ATP (adenosine tri-phosphate). Required by the nervous system to maintain equilibrium and is required for amino acid transformation from one form to the other inside the liver.
Asparagine functions as a neurotransmitter, of particular interest is that Aspartic Acid and Asparagine have high concentrations in the hippocampus and the hypothalamus. The hippocampus is a part of the brain that plays the main role in short-term memory, while the hypothalamus is involved in the biology of emotion, and serves as a neurological gate between the brain and the rest of the nervous system.
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Aspartic Acid Aspartic Acid is a non essential amino acid that may be interconvertible with the amino acid Asparagine. Asparatic acid is synthesized from glutamate. Asparatic acid aids in the expulsion of ammonia via the urea cycle, thus increasing the resistance to fa Aspartic Acid aids in the expulsion of harmful ammonia from the body. When ammonia enters the circulatory system Aspartic Acid acts as a highly toxic substance which can be harmful to the central nervous system. Recent studies have shown that Aspartic Acid may increase resistance to fatigue and increase endurance.
Aspartic Acid assists in detoxification of ammonia and as a result provides protection to the liver. Aspartic Acid promotes uptake of other toxins from the bloodstream and trace elements in the gut. Aspartic Acid also connects the nitrogen and carbohydrate metabolism which is responsible for a large part of the energy cycle in the body. Aspartic Acid assists in the transport of magnesium and potassium to cells.
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Carnitine (Acetyl-l-Carnitine, l-Carnitine) Carnitine is important in the efficient metabolism of fats and the acceleration of the oxidation of fat. Carnitine's major role in fatty acid transfer (energy burning) across the mitochondria membrane of cells, and therefore, is a great weight control nutrient. Important in mobilizing fatty tissue deposits and removal of ketones, which are a waste by-product of fat metabolism. Provides energy to muscles; believed to increase tolerance during aerobics and other physical activities. Carnitine is mandatory for the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria for beta oxidation. Ketogenesis in the liver and kidneys is dependent upon carnitine. A deficiency in carnitine can result in an inability to lose weight. Carnitine plays a key role in the mitochondral transport of acetyl Coenzyme A from inside the mitochondria to the cytoplasm. More...
Carnosine (L-Carnosine) Carnosine is found in high concentrations in skeletal muscle tissue, heart muscle, nerve tissue and the brain. L-Carnosine is an anti-oxidant properties, neurotransmitter and a regulator of zinc and copper concentrations in in nerve cells. L-Carnosine is a dipeptide composed of the amino acids beta-alanine and L-histidine. It occurs naturally in muscle, brain and other tissues in high concentrations. In vitro studies, L-carnosine reduced glycation, a process in which DNA and protein are damaged by glucose.
The end products of glycation are highly reactive molecules called advanced glycation end products (AGEs) which can further damage proteins, lipids and nucleic acids.
The accumulation of AGEs is associated with aging.
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Citrulline (l-Citrulline) Promotes energy, stimulates the immune system and detoxifies ammonia, which damages all living cells. This amino acid also helps keep the liver functioning properly. Supports the body in optimizing blood flow through its conversion to L-arginine and then nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is involved in vasodilatation and low levels are associated with mental and physical fatigue and sexual dysfunction. (Also see Arginine) More...
Cysteine (l-Cysteine, N-acetylcysteine) Cysteine a conditionally essential sulfur bearing amino acid, derived by the combination of methionine and pyridoxal 5 phosphate (vitamin B6). Acetylcysteine is the N-acetyl derivative of L-cysteine, and the precursor form to glutathione. N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is a derivative of L-cysteine wherein an acetyl group is attached to the nitrogen atom, and the precursor form to glutathione.
(Also see Cystine) More...
Cystine (l-Cystine) Cystine is an oxidized dimeric, absorbable form of cysteine, formed by linking two cysteine residues via a disulfide bond. Cystine functions as an antioxidant and is a powerful aid to the body in protecting against radiation and pollution. It can help slow down the aging process, deactivate free radicals, neutralize toxins; aids in protein synthesis and presents cellular change. Cystine is necessary for the formation of the skin, which aids in the recovery from burns and surgical operations. Hair and skin are made up 10-14% Cystine.
Promotes a faster recovery from surgery/injury, and increases white cell activity in the immune system increasing resistance to disease. May help with respiratory problems such as bronchitis.
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Dimethylglycine (DMG) Dimethylglycine is a non-protein amino acid naturally found in both animal and plant cells. Dimethylglycine is produced in cells as an intermediate in the metabolism of choline to glycine. See Also Vitamin B-15More...
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid, Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) An amino acid that functions as a neurotransmitter in the brain. GABA is synthesized in the brain from glutamate and glucose, and functions as an inhibitory neurotransmitter (it blocks nerve impulses). GABA is concentrated in the hypothalamus region of the brain and is known to play a role in the overall functioning of the pituitary gland - which regulates growth hormone synthesis, sleep cycles, and body temperature. More...
Glutamic Acid (Glutamate, l-Glutamic Acid) Glutamic Acid (Glutamate), a non essential amino acid, a precursor to Glutamine and GABA, is a key molecule in cellular metabolism serving as a metabolic fuel for other functional roles in the body. Glutamic Acid helps speed the healing of ulcers; gives a "lift" from fatigue; helps control the craving for sugar.
Glutamic Acid is a component of GTF and is required for the production of other nonessential amino acids and folic acid. Assists in the metabolization of sugars and fats. L-Glutamic Acid is abundant in the brain as a neurotransmitter sending messages from one brain cell to the next. Glutamic Acid increases firing of neurons in the nervous system. Helps correct personality disorders. The brain converts L-Glutamic Acid to a compound that regulates brain activity. A deficiency in L-Glutamic Acid can result in brain damage. L-Glutamine nourishes the brain and is important for the prevention of depression, impotence and fatigue. L-Glutamic Acid is abundant in the brain as a neurotransmitter sending messages from one brain cell to the next.
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Glutamine (l-Glutamine) Glutamine may help to maintain muscle, boost the immune system, support gastrointestinal health, and sustain healthy growth hormone levels. Of the 20+ amino acids needed for protein synthesis, glutamine is the most abundant, making up 50% of all amino acids in the blood and 60% of those in the body. It is found in high concentrations in skeletal muscle, lung, liver, brain, and stomach tissue.
Glutamine is important in the fight against fatigue, schizophrenia, mental disabilities, and is a precursor to a healthy digestive tract. Converted to glutamic acid in the brain and is important for cerebral function. Dr. Richard Passwater, in his paper titled "14 doctors confirm L-Glutamine Improves I.Q"., stated that L-Glutamine effects brain cell activity and is one two types of fuel necessary to nourish the brain. More...
Glutathione (l-Glutathione) A tri-peptide amino acid that helps eliminate the formation of free radicals. May aid the liver in detoxification, helps slow the aging process, and may also aid the cardiovascular and immune systems in preventing and treating other health conditions like cancer and heart disease. An antioxidant that neutralizes peroxides and free radicals which help defend your lens, macula and other eye tissues from free radicals. More...
Glycine (l-Glycine) Glycine is a non essential amino acid. Glycine can be obtained from protein food or synthesized in your nervous system from the amino acid threonine or in your body from serine. Helps trigger the release of oxygen to the energy requiring cell-making process; Important in the manufacturing of hormones responsible for a strong immune system. Glycine corrects hyperacidity, aids in the construction of RNA and DNA, and helps stabilize heart arrhythmia and muscle tissue after heavy exercise.
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Histidine (l-Histidine) Histidine is a natural amino acids that is a precursor to histamine and present in proteins, and is essential amino acid in children and important for adults. Found in high concentrations in hemoglobin; has been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, allergic diseases, ulcers & anemia.
Found effective when used in the treatment of allergic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and ulcers. May help un-block nasal passages, resolve redness and swelling. Histidine creates a balancing action that may prevent some allergies. Amino acids stimulate the immune system, helping to better fight off viruses and infection. More...
Isoleucine (l-Isoleucine) Responsible for healthy blood and the transport of oxygen in the body. Important in the regulation of blood sugar levels.
They provide ingredients for the manufacturing of other essential biochemical components in the body, some of which are utilized for the production of energy, stimulants to the upper brain and helping you to be more alert.
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Leucine (l-Leucine) Believed to be responsible for lowering high blood sugar levels, and is important in the healing of bones, skin, and muscle tissue.
Branched-chain amino acids provide ingredients for the manufacturing of other essential biochemical components in the body, some of which are utilized for the production of energy, stimulants to the upper brain and helping you to be more alert.
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Lysine (l-Lysine) Lysine insures the adequate absorption of calcium; helps form collagen; aids in the production of antibodies, hormones & enzymes. Helps in collagen formation and in the repair of tissue. A deficiency may result in tiredness, inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, retarded growth, hair loss ,anemia & reproductive problems.
Lysine is known for its use in soothing the effects of herpes. May improve the endurance to stress and battle fatigue. Found to be low in the serum of vegetarians. Lysine aids in the absorption of calcium, and deficiencies could lead to calcium excretion (kidney stones) and possible dwarfness. Strengthens the thymus gland and immune system. Plays and important role in collagen formation in tissue, which in necessary for neutralizing viruses and repairing damage the eye lens. Researchers have found that weight reduction can be improved with the use of a combination of the amino acids L-Ornithine and L-Arginine enhanced by L-Lysine.
Needed for proper growth and bone development. Used especially by those recovering from injury or surgery. More...
Methionine (dl-Methionine, l-Methionine) A sulfur bearing amino acid that detoxifies heavy metals (such as lead) and excessive levels of Histamine. A powerful antioxidant preventing free radical damage to tissues. Produces Choline a brain food, and may help with the digestive system, helps in the breakdown of fats, prevents the buildup of fat in the liver and arteries, premature hair loss and fights fatigue. Beneficial for people with allergies. L-Methionine helps increase neuro-transmitters in the brain. Helps create adrenaline, which controls sexual activity and mitigates the effects of high histamine levels.
The principle supplier of sulfur which prevents disorders of the hair, skin and nails; helps lower cholesterol levels by increasing the liver's production of lecithin; reduces liver fat and protects the kidneys; a natural chelating agent for heavy metals; regulates the formation of ammonia and creates ammonia-free urine which reduces bladder irritation; influences hair follicles and promotes hair growth.
A vital lipotropic amino acid that helps maintain liver health. Needed for proper metabolism of our dietary fat. Assists in the removal of toxic wastes from the liver. Inadequate dietary methionine makes liver work harder. A powerful antioxidant which protects against free radicals, particularly superoxide radicals produced by alcohol metabolized in the liver.
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Ornithine (l-Ornithine) Ornithine is necessary for proper immune system and liver function, detoxifies ammonia and helps skin stay healthy. Ornithine promotes healing. Ornithine accelerates tissue repair and wound healing. Once HGH is released the body can build muscle and at the same time decrease body fat. Ornithine may aid in detoxifying ammonia in the body fluids that is poisonous to living cells in the urea cycle. Thought to build the immune system and promote proper liver function. L-Ornithine promotes healing.
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Phenylalanine (d-Phenylalanine, dl-Phenylalanine, l-Phenylalanine) The biosynthesis of other amino acids and some neurotransmitters are derived from the essential amino acid Phenylalanine that can also be converted to tyrosine by a biochemical process in the liver. L-Phenylalanine produces neurotransmitters that the brain uses to manufacture norepinephrine, a natural stimulant that creates a sense of well being. Phenylalanine is involved in the production of phenylethylamine, a brain stimulant. L-Phenylalanine inhibits enzymes that break down endorphin hormones. More...
Proline (l-Proline) Proline is a non essential amino acid and one of the 20 proteinogenic units used in living organisms as building blocks of protein. Proline is extremely important for the proper functioning of joints and tendons; helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles. Proline is a critical component of cartilage, and for the health of joints, tendons and ligaments. More...
Pyroglutamate An amino acid naturally found in vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and meat. It is normally present in large amounts in the human brain, cerebrospinal fluid, and blood. More...
Serine (l-Serine) Serine is a non essential amino acid. Serine is known to increase the immune system by building up antibodies, aid in the proper metabolism of fats and fatty acids, and assist in the growth of muscles. A storage source of glucose by the liver and muscles; helps strengthen the immune system by providing antibodies; synthesizes fatty acid sheath around nerve fibers. More...
Taurine (l-Taurine) Taurine is an amino acid found mostly in our central nervous system, skeletal muscle, and in great concentration in our heart and brain. Taurine helps regulate the contraction of the heart muscle. Taurine is the most abundant amino acid in the heart. Important in the building skeletal muscle and white blood cells and the central nervous system. Taurine is the key component in the formation of bile, needed for the digestion of fats, the absorption of fat and fat-soluble vitamins and the control of serum cholesterol levels. More...
Theanine (gamma-glutamylethylamide, l-Theanine) A relaxant that increases alpha-waves producing mental and physical relaxation decreasing stress and anxiety, without inducing drowsiness More...
Threonine (l-Threonine) Threonine is an essential amino acid and is a precursor of the amino acids glycine and serine. Threonine is thought to help maintain the proper protein balance in the body and prevent fatty buildup in the liver. Threonine may boost the immune system by forming antibodies and immunoglobulins. Threonine helps regulate the central nervous system. Maintains protein balance in the body.
Threonine is an essential amino acid that helps to maintain the proper protein balance in the body. Threonine is important for the formation of collagen, elastin, and tooth enamel and enhances the immune system by aiding in the production of antibodies. More...
Tryptophan (l-Tryptophan) L-Tryptophan is a chemical precursor for Serotonin in the body, known as 5-hydroxy-tryptophan or 5HT. Serotonin is the major neurotransmitter within the brain and found to have decreased in people who are depressed and suffer from chronic pain syndromes Tryptophan is important in the transfer of nerve impulses; has been found to produce a calming effect used in the treatment of stress, anxiety and depression. Because of these qualities it is responsible for normal sleep. It also takes part in the process of burning extra body fat and aids in weight control. More...
Tyrosine (l-Tyrosine) Involved with the important brain neuro-transmitters epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine. Tyrosine is synthesized in the body from existing levels of phenylalanine. Stress is associated with reduced levels of norepinephrine. Tyrosine prevents reduction of norepinephrine levels that are associated with stress. Many clinical studies, along with a large body of anecdotal evidence, indicate that tyrosine may prove to be a vital substance in alleviating depression, as well as the irritating symptoms of premenstral syndrome. Tyrosine is used as an aid in the treatment of and withdrawal from cocaine addiction. Tyrosine is a direct precursor to Thyroxine as well as being a precursor to Adrenaline and Noradrenaline. Thyroxine is a primary Thyroid hormone. Thyroxine deficiency results in a series of conditions including excess weight gain, cold hands and feet, decreased basal metabolism, etc.
Precursor to norepinephrine and dopamine
Non-essential amino acid (PA is converted into it first)
Studied as an effective aid to cocaine withdrawal More...
Valine (l-Valine) When used properly with Leucine and Isoleucine, it aids in improving muscle metabolism and tissue repair; very helpful for after surgery or other stress put on the body such as most forms of exercising or heavy weight training. More...
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