Amino acids are an essential part of our daily diet. They come from the proteins we eat and are involved in virtually every system of the body. Most people know that amino acids help build muscles—but fewer realize that they also form neurotransmitters, influence how we think and feel, and even regulate how our genes express themselves.
Understanding amino acids is key to understanding energy, immunity, mental clarity, and healthy aging.
Where Do Amino Acids Come From?
We obtain amino acids primarily from two sources: dietary protein and internal production.
Dietary Protein
Animal-based proteins include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy, all of which contain complete amino acid profiles.
Plant-based proteins include beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, grains, and vegetables. Some plant proteins are incomplete individually, but combining them can create complete amino acid profiles.
Made in the Body
Some amino acids are produced internally, but during illness, stress, aging, injury, or poor digestion, the body may not make enough. These become conditionally essential.
My Favorite Amino Acid Supplement
I have recommended a specific amino acid formula for my patients for over two decades. The “Perfect Amino” formula. It has worked well for everyday people, up to professional athletes. Consider this plant-based product for your good health.
Some amino acids are produced internally, but during illness, stress, aging, injury, or poor
Types of Amino Acids
Essential, meaning that while some amino acids can be made from other amino acids, some you can only get from your diet, these include: Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Tryptophan, and Valine.
Conditionally Essential, meaning with some conditions you will need to supplement these: Arginine, Glutamine, Glycine, Proline, Tyrosine, Cysteine, Serine, Ornithine, and Taurine.
Non-essential, meaning that these can be made from other amino acids: Alanine, Aspartate, Asparagine, and Glutamate.
How Amino Acids Work in the Body
Amino acids function in structural support, brain neurotransmitter formation, genetic expression, immune system function, hormone and enzyme production, detoxification, and metabolism. In short, everywhere.
Structural Support
Amino acids form muscles, skin, hair, nails, cartilage, and collagen—especially glycine, proline, and lysine.
Brain Function
Amino acids form neurotransmitters that regulate mood, energy, focus, and sleep.
– Tryptophan → Serotonin, Melatonin
– Tyrosine → Dopamine, Adrenaline
– Glutamine → GABA, Glutamate
Genetic Expression
Methionine supports DNA methylation, lysine participates in acetylation, and leucine activates mTOR pathways responsible for tissue repair.
Immune System Support
Glutamine supports immune cell function while cysteine forms glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant.
Hormones, Enzymes, and Detoxification
Amino acids are needed for thyroid hormones, insulin, digestive enzymes, liver detoxification processes, and antioxidant protection.
Energy and Metabolism
Amino acids help produce glucose and maintain stamina, particularly during fasting, exercise, or low-carb states.
Signs of Low Amino Acid Intake
Muscle loss, slow healing, fatigue, brittle hair or nails, mood issues, frequent infections, and swelling may indicate deficiency.
Who Needs More Amino Acids?
Athletes, older adults, post-surgery patients, those with chronic inflammation, vegans, individuals with digestive disorders, and those under stress.
The Takeaway
Amino acids are more than nutrients—they are the foundation of physical strength, mental clarity, immune resilience, metabolism, and healthy aging. Start with a good diet, but also consider taking a high-quality supplement for times of increased need.
