Essential amino acids refer to the amino acids that are essential for our diets. The natural choice of essential amino acids greatly varies on species to species. It is due to the fact that synthesis of different substances may require different metabolic structures. For humans, 9 amino acids belong to this group of selection. These are isoleucine, leucine, lysine, threonine, tryptophan, methionine, phenylalanine, histidine, and valine. Here is a brief description of these amino acids.

Isoleucine

Isoleucine is effective for recovery from muscle cramp, especially in a post exercise period. It is also required during the production of hemoglobin. It assists in maintaining blood sugar level in the blood stream. This is one of the important essential amino acids contributing to the blood coagulation. Deficiency in isoleucine may include symptoms resembling hypoglycemia. Common problems may involve dizziness, depression, confusion, irritation, etc.

Leucine

It functions on balancing blood sugar level in the body. It also promotes in the development of the muscle tissue. It modulates the level of hormone production and energy regulation. It also provides support by preventing the breakdown of muscles. Deficiency in leucine may include dizziness, irritation, headache, fatigue, etc.

Lysine

This is one of the most significant essential amino acids that must be present in diet in order to promote bone growth and development, especially in infants and toddlers. It helps in assisting calcium absorption as well as nitrogen maintenance in the body. Deficiency in lysine is not a common case. It is available widely in many protein based foods. However, deficiency results in experiencing several complications such as low energy, hair loss, anemia, retarded growth, weight loss, and reproductive system complications.

Threonine

This amino acid is perfect in assisting protein balance in the body. Additionally, it helps in the development of collagen and maintaining elasticity in the skin. It also functions of liver. It functions well in reducing liver fat. In addition to other essential amino acids, threonine promotes well balancing of immune system in terms of antibody production and thymus growth.

Tryptophan

This is an essential ingredient for the formation of vitamin B3. It is responsible for the production of serotonin which is exclusively important for balancing nerve and brain functioning. It is beneficial for controlling hyperactivity among children. It aids in alleviating stress. It works effectively as an appetite suppressant. It also promotes in reducing weight.

Methionine

It helps in breaking down of fatty acids, and hence it prevents in building up fatty elements on the artery walls. It also works significantly in the normal detoxification of liver. It is essential in promoting energy production as well as in muscle building. Methionine, one of the essential amino acids, functions like an effective anti-oxidant by supplying sulfur for inactivating free radicals.

Phenylalanine

It is intimately related to the nervous system and thereby effective in regulating mood. It functions on the memory system and learning processes. It is also effective as an appetite suppressant. Deficiency of phenylalanine may result in depression, chronic pain and Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, if someone is lacking this essential amino acid, he may suffer from fatigue, lethargy, skin irruption, liver complications, and sluggish growth.

Histidine

It comes to the blood stream especially when someone is affected by allergic complications. It aids in repairing of bodily tissues as well as for development. It also protects nerve cells by maintaining myelin sheath. It assists in the production of red and white blood cells. It also helps body to fight against bodily damages resulted from radiation.

Valine

Valine offers a stimulating effect. It is one of the significant among all essential amino acids that promote muscular metabolism and tissue growth. It also functions as a great energy source for all bodily mechanism. Drug addiction and alcoholism result in a deficiency of this essential amino acid. Apart from that, a deficiency in valine may also result in damaged myelin sheath.

Are you getting enough protein in your diet? Find out with this handy protein intake calculator:

Protein Calculator — Daily Protein Intake Calculator