Those Awesome Amino Acids!
Cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes account for approximately two- thirds of all deaths in the United States, with cardiovascular disease being the most prevalent.
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Cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes account for approximately two- thirds of all deaths in the United States, with cardiovascular disease being the most prevalent. Due to this alarming statistic, a concerted effort is being made through many research institutes to find a solution to this problem. While there have been a lot of studies on cardiac supplements, such as essential fatty acids, coenzyme Q-10, grapeseed extract, magnesium, vitamin E and vitamin C, some previously studied biochemical compounds are now being looked at more extensively as researchers are recognizing that these compounds may advance the current treatments of heart disease. In particular, amino acids have shown to benefit the heart.
Amino Acids: Building Block of Protein
People commonly associate the words ‘amino acids’ and ‘protein’ with bodybuilding and enhancing athletic performance. However, proteins are essential for the structure and function of all living cells and are necessary for nearly every biochemical reaction in the body. Protein comes from the Greek word “protas" meaning "of primary importance". It is entirely made up of amino acids. Hormones, enzymes and immune cells are all examples of proteins. Some functions of proteins in the bodyinclude joint mechanics, energy metabolism, heart function and nerve and tissue communication. Although the body can make some amino acids, unfortunately, it cannot makeall of them. The amino acids that we must obtain from food are known as ‘essential amino acids’ and include lysine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine.
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In a healthy individual, the body is able to meet the demands of everyday function by producing amino acids such as taurine, carnitine and arginine in sufficient amounts. However, researchers are now discovering that specific amino acids and their production are depleted and inadequate in disorders such as cardiovascular disease and in other stressful conditions. In these disease states, amino acids become an essential nutrient. In a particular study, researchers found favorable clinical effects in decreasing cardiovascular disease when the deficiency of amino acids was corrected. So, let’s take a look at some of the important amino acids that, when taken daily, can potentially play a role in preventing disease.
Toast to Taurine
More individuals are becoming aware of the importance of taurine. Commonly found in all meat and fish, taurine has recently been added to energy drinks such as Red Bull, Energy Fizz and Monster.
Taurine has many important roles in the body. Originally discovered in the digestive tract in a compound called bile, taurine is necessary for proper absorption of fat and fat-soluble vitamins. It is one of the most abundant amino acids in our muscles (heart muscle and regular skeletal muscles) and brain. Taurine assists the immune system to fight bacteria and fungi and also helps regulate cardiac (heart) activity, stabilizes the nerves, increases energy and prevents brain cell over-activity (helping people with epilepsy). Although more clinical controlled studies are necessary to assess the complete benefit of taurine in heart disease, after looking at all the applications of taurine, it is a good idea to ensure we are getting adequate amounts of it from food.
Go for Glutamine (TrueBUILD)
Glutamine has been shown to help in the recovery for people who don’t get enough oxygen to the heart. It protects the heart from damage due to chemotherapy and it appears to encourage positive changes in electrocardiograms (ECG). It is also beneficial for alcoholism. As the most abundant amino acid in the body, it is involved in more metabolic processes than any other amino acids. It is an energy source for our cells (specifically, intestinal cells) as it gets converted to glucose in times of need. Glutamine stimulates the synthesis and inhibits the breakdown of protein. A deficiency of glutamine is associated in cases of metabolic stress such as heart disease and diabetes. It is also used by white blood cells and is important for immune function. Glutamine is found in many foods high in protein, such as fish, meat, beans, cabbage and dairy products and is available in supplement form.
Abilities of Arginine (TrueFLOW)
The amino acid arginine has many functions in the body. Arginine assists in healthy blood flow and circulation to the brain, limbs and reproductive organs. It plays a role in wound healing, helps remove excess toxins from the body, stimulates immune function and promotes secretion of several hormones, including insulin and growth hormones. It is a precursor to nitric oxide which the body uses to keep blood vessels dilated which then allows the heart to receive sufficient oxygen. Researchers have started to use arginine as a treatment for people with angina and congestive heart failure. Also, preliminary evidence suggests that arginine may play a role in thinning the blood and regulating cholesterol levels. Good sources of arginine include dairy, poultry, meat, fish, nuts and chocolate.
How much Protein?
Daily intake of protein (meat, chicken, fish, dairy, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes and soy) is essential for normal physiological function. The amount of protein that we requie daily depends on factors such as age, sex, activity level, present medical conditions and how well we absorb and digest them. Proteins are broken down into amino acids through hydrochloric acid in the stomach and enzymes and are later absorbed in the small intestines.
A deficiency of protein is evident in certain disease states and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, low energy, insulin resistance, hair loss, loss of hair pigment, loss of muscle mass, low body temperature and hormonal irregularities.
Given all the functions and uses of amino acids, it is important for us to eat protein on a regular basis. Protein powders (TrueSTRENGTH) are concentrated sources of protein often fortified with vitamins and minerals and are another way to add protein to any diet. If you suffer from any of the medical conditions listed above or if you wish to prevent cardiovascular disease in the future, individual amino acid supplementation may be beneficial. Consult with your health care practitioner and get one step closer to optimal, preventive health.
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