Amino Acids

The skilled organic chemist will quickly recognize that this section is reduced to a
simplified overview designed to offer a primary appreciation of why complete protein
consumption is VITAL for human life and healthy longevity...

When protein is broken down by digestion, the result is what has been identified as 22
groups of proteogenic amino acids...

The 22 amino acids are termed proteogenic amino acids, because some 50,000 proteins, and
over 15,000 known enzymes, in the human body are produced from various combinations
of some or all of these 22 amino acids!!! ... All amino acids in the protein are linked by
peptide bonds... The three-dimensional structure and function of a protein are dependent
on the sequence of amino acid side chains in the polypeptide. Amino acid side chains can be
divided into several different classes based on their physico-chemical properties and by
their content/structure of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulphur.

At least eight of the 22 proteogenic amino acids can NOT be manufactured by the human
body (thus are termed as "essential")... The rest of the amino acids with proper nutrition
and cellular functioning can be manufactured by the human body (thus termed "non-
essential" for supplementation purposes)... The term "non-essential" is a misleading
word... because ALL proteogenic AMINO ACIDS ARE ESSENTIAL to have life, health
and longevity!!! ... Since it's a proven FACT that few human beings consume a daily intake
of adequate complete proteins or enzymes... wisdom indicates the importance of paying
close attention to the topic of amino acids and enzymes... By understanding the known
functions of each amino acid and enzymes, might lead to discovery of which could be the
missing component; the addition of which might eliminate undesirable conditions, and
enhance desirable conditions.

It's not necessary to become a biochemist to accomplish this goal... A person can approach
the subject of receiving adequate amino acids, by consuming adequate amounts of
COMPLETE PROTEIN and multi-purposed DIGESTIVE ENZYMES ... Complete Protein
Foods are so termed because they contain all 8 of the essential amino acids that can NOT
be produced by the human body...These are: Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine,
Phenylalanine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Valine ....Young children ALSO require additional
methionine. Complete proteins are found in animal meat, eggs, and soy beans.

Amino Acids are the building blocks of the body. In addition to building cells and repairing
tissue, they form antibodies to combat invading bacteria & viruses, are part of the enzyme
and hormonal system, build nucleoproteins (RNA & DNA); carry oxygen through the body
and are required for muscle activity. The 22 proteogenic amino acids are:

1. Alanine
2. Arginine
3. Asparagine
4. Aspartic acid
5. Cysteine
6. Cystine
7. Glutamine
8. Glutamic acid
9. Glycine
10. Histidine
11. Hydroxyproline
12. Isoleucine - Essential
13. Leucine - Essential
14. Lysine - Essential
15. Methionine - Essential
16. Phenylalanine - Essential
17. Proline
18. Serine
19. Threonine - Essential
20. Tryptophan - Essential
21. Tyrosine
22. Valine - Essential

As already stated... The human body builds over 50,000 known proteins and over 15,000
known enzymes from these amino acids... Enzymes are required for life... All enzymes,
including digestive enzymes, are made from amino acids; often with vitamins acting as
coenzymes, and sometimes with mineral activators. When protein is consumed, the body
first breaks the protein down into individual amino acids before the cells can use them in
specific metabolic pathways, or for building enzymes or body proteins.... BUT to
breakdown protein requires FIRST having enough of the right kind of enzymes... The
symbiotic relationship of all life energies begins to come into clear appreciation by
understooding this "Which came first... the chicken or the egg?" dilemma of enzymes and
amino acids...

In Dr. Atkins' Vita-Nutrient Solution, Dr. Robert C. Atkins, M.D. reports... "Without
different combinations of amino acids, hair would be indistinguishable from the heart,
among other unseemly possibilities. Just as letters of the alphabet form every word in the
dictionary, these chemicals congregate in an endless array of ways to form protein
molecules that influence and define the body's every cell."

The body needs amino acids in order to get amino acids from the food consumed, thus lack
of free amino acids can be followed by an inability to produce the digestive enzymes
necessary to break down protein into it's component amino acids. This fact can lead to a
cycle of poor nutrition, even when plenty of food is consumed... Since amino acids play a
key role in normalizing moods, attention, concentration, aggression, sex drive, and sleep;
these are some factors to monitor in checking for whether or not the body is receiving
adequate free amino acid.

There are many types of amino acid supplements on the market thus the buyer must be
very careful. Some "free form" amino acid products are reduced from a protein source
(often milk) and might only have small amounts of free form aminos added to them. This
represents a misleading but inexpensive source, as the person often thinks a blend of
individual free form amino acids is being bought. Frequently, people have allergies to the
source protein used.

Many nutritionalist prefer a complete blend of free form amino acids, as a necessary
starting point; adding other nutrients or individual amino acids as needed. When taking
amino acid supplements an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals must ALSO be
available, especially Vitamin C. It's suggested that a well-informed physician or nutritionist
be consulted before beginning amino acid supplementation.

Supplement labels and literature, commonly present amino acids with "L-" or "D-"
preceding them.... These that in nature there are two basic types of chemicals in nature: a
"L" form and a "D" form. The "form" is seen when light is sent through the amino that
has been placed in a solution.... Light will refract either to the left or right. The "L" form
denotes a left-sided molecule. The "D" denotes a right-sided molecule. Most organic
molecules are left-sided."

Overview of Amino Acids

1... ALANINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - Is an important source of energy for muscle
tissue, the brain and central nervous system; strengthens the immune system by producing
antibodies; helps in the metabolism of sugars and organic acids.

2... ARGININE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - Studies have shown that is has improved
immune responses to bacteria, viruses & tumor cells; promotes wound healing and
regeneration of the liver; causes the release of growth hormones; considered crucial for
optimal muscle growth and tissue repair; helps arthritis sufferers by stimulating the
growth of new bone and tendon cells. It appears that ingestion of arginine increases human
growth harmone (HGH), which in turn accelerates the formation of new bone and tendon.
When healthy males were given a single dose of arginine, reported Dr. A. Isidori in Current
Medical Research and Opinion, a definite increase in HGH was noted in all subjects, often
occurring as rapidly as within 30 minutes of the intake of the amino acid."

3... ASPARAGINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - On intracellular function Asparagine,

Glutamine and Serine are vital for energy and smooth function of brain reactions,
contribute to the formation of proteins, muscles, neurotransmitters, antibodies and
receptors; important transporters of nitrogen; foundation of carbohydrate metabolism;
improve recovery after surgery or trauma by hastening wound... Aspartic acid 252 and
asparagine 185 are essential for activity of lipid N-acetylglucosaminylphosphate
transferase.

4... ASPARTIC ACID (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - Aids in the expulsion of harmful
ammonia from the body. When ammonia enters the circulatory system it 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.
5... CYSTEINE (Non-Essential) "In addition to protection the cells from the harmful
effects of radiation, [L-Cysteine] protects the live and brain from damage due to alcohol
and cigarette smoke." (PFNH pg. 28)

6... CYSTINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) 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. It 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.

7... GLUTAMINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - The brain requires a constant supply of
energy to think and be alert, Glutamine provides the fuel the brain cells need to think
clearly and help combat fatigue... In a paper entitled "Fourteen Doctors Confirm L-
Glutamine Improves I.Q.;" Dr. Righard Passwater explains that the brain actually need
two types of "fuel". Until recently, doctors knew of only one type, glucose; but recent
studies have proven that another compound exsists and nourishes the brain. That
compound is L-glutamine."

8... GLUTAMIC ACID (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - Considered to be nature's "Brain

food" by improving mental capacities; helps speed the healing of ulcers; support your
digestive track; gives a "lift" from fatigue; helps control alcoholism, schizophrenia and the
craving for sugar.

9... GLYCINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - 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.

10... HISTIDINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - Is found abundantly in hemoglobin; has

been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, allergic diseases, ulcers & anemia. A
deficiency can cause poor hearing.

11... HYDROXYPROLINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - Plays a major role in

manufacture of collagen, connective tissue, skin, ligaments, tendons, bones, cartilage and is
necessary in Vitamin D assimilation. Vitamin D is essential in proper calcium absorption.
Hydoxyproline has been brought to public attention by "Calorad" advertising "weight loss
while you sleep" from an increase in lean muscle tissues and a decrease in adipose tissue
(fat). Their " simple and unique delivery system provides a fuel at the body's prime time
for healing and repair, the first ninety minutes of sleep." ... BUT claims for taking
supplemental forms of Hydoxyproline are not substantiated by studies such as those by
Haydock DA. Hill GL. Journal of Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition. 10(6):550-4, 1986 Nov-
Dec which studies the relationship between nutritional state and wound healing was
examined in 66 adult surgical patients. Wound-healing response was assessed by measuring
the collagen content (hydroxyproline) which revealed a normal protein intake will facilitate
the proper growth and formation of collagen.... And that increased intake of
hydroxyproline will NOT increase the rate of wound healing or collagen formation beyond
a set limit. As long as protein intake is well above starvation levels, there's no reason to
supplement diet with hydroxyproline.

12... ISOLEUCINE (Essential Amino Acid) stimulates the brain to produce alertness.

You might appreciate knowing that isoleucine is why mosquites bite, as revealed in the
following article from the Lansing State Journal, June 11, 1997...

"Why Do Mosquitoes Bite People?

Actually, only the female mosquitoes bite people. They are searching for isoleucine.
Isoleucine is one of the basic building blocks of life called an amino acid. Amino acids are
what make up proteins, and female mosquitoes need these proteins to make eggs. If they
find isoleucine then they may lay as many as 100 eggs. But if they do not find isoleucine
then they may only lay at most ten eggs.

So how do the mosquitoes find isoleucine? Isoleucine is part of our blood. The female
mosquito punctures our skin with a part of her mouth known as her feeding stylets. Then
she searches for blood vessels within our skin. A female mosquito usually finds a blood
vessel in less than a minute. Next she sucks our blood through one mouthpiece. She can
swallow up to four times her weight in blood, and when she is full she looks like a tiny red
light bulb. She can do this because while she is sucking our blood, she is also injecting us
with her saliva. There are special chemicals in her saliva which keep our blood from
clotting.

Actually, human blood is not the best source for isoleucine. Blood from buffaloes and rats
contains more isoleucine, but since people outnumber rats and buffaloes in many places the
mosquitoes bite us instead."

13... LEUCINE (Essential Amino Acid) - Leucine stimulates protein synthesis and it’s
importance in protein storage. Both Isoleucine and Leucine 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. - - Supplement suggestions from Nature's Sunshine: l-Leucine* promotes the
healing of bones, skin and muscles. It must be used in combination with I-Valine and I-
Isoleucine.

14... LYSINE (Essential Amino Acid) - Lysine is found in the muscle tissue. Soybeans are
high in lysine, but rare in other vegetables. Lysine insures the adequate absorption of
calcium; helps form collagen ( which makes up bone cartilage & connective tissues); aids in
the production of antibodies, hormones & enzymes. A deficiency may result in tiredness,
inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, retarded growth, hair loss, anemia &
reproductive problems.

Recent studies show Lysine to be effective against herpes by improving the balance of
nutrients that reduce viral growth. It estimated that as much as 70 percent of the world's
population is afflicted with herpes simplex virus that causes painful lesions, especially in
the oral and genital areas. Thus claims of a non-toxic, inexpensive substance such as lysine
is an effective preventive are welcome.

Researchers hypothesized that the amino acid arginine promotes herpes and lysine inhibits
it. Herpes sufferers are often advised to: Avoid arginine rich foods such as
chocolate,peanuts, cashews, barley, peas, soft drinks and beer. Consume lysine-rich foods
such as dairy products, potatoes and brewers yeast; plus take lysine supplements (1 gram
daily during active outbreak).

There are claims that lysine, combined with arginine, helps build muscle mass. This claim
is based on a study to see if this combination could induce secretion of biologically active
amounts of GH... In that the study demonstrated significant human-growth-hormone (GH)
releasing effect with an oral daily dose of 1,200 milligrams of lysine combined with 1,200
milligrams of arginine, taken on an empty stomach, has resulted in its use by muscle
builders.

15... METHIONINE (Essential Amino Acid) - Methionine performs the major roles of
being a methyl donor, sulfur donor, and helps lower cholesterol. Methionine is a natural
chelating agent for heavy metals; is a principle supplier of sulfur which prevents disorders
of the hair, skin and nails; influences hair follicles and promotes hair growth; increases the
liver's production of lecithin thus helps reduce cholesterol and liver fat; regulates the
formation of ammonia and creates ammonia-free urine which reduces bladder irritation
and promotes kidney health.

16... PHENYLALAINE (Essential Amino Acid) - Phenylanine which is highly concentrated

in protein foods is understood to perform as a pain reliever. Phenylanine is used by the
brain to produce Norepinephrine, a chemical that transmits signals between nerve cells and
the brain; keeps maintain alertness; reduces hunger; acts as an antidepressant and helps
improve memory. - DL-Phenylalanine (DLPA), is a natural amino acid found in many
foods. It's a powerful, nonaddictive analgesic. Dr. Earl L. Mindell, author of the Vitamin
Bible reports: "DLPA is as or more effective in reliving pain as morphine or other opiates.
When you are injured or experiencing disease, your body naturally produces morphine or
other 0piates. When you are injured or experiencing disease, your body naturally produces
morphine-like chemicals called endorphins. At the same time however, certain enzymes are
programmed to destroy the endorphins. DLPA works by inhibiting the enzymes, thus
allowing the endorphins to continue their pain relief activities."

17... PROLINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - Essential for proper functioning of joints and
tendons; helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles.

18... SERINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - 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.
19... THREONINE (Essential Amino Acid) - Threonine is the least abundant amino acid,
but essential in preventing fat build-up in the liver and assisting digestive and intestinal
tracts function more smoothly; assists metabolism and assimilation. Threonine is an
important constituent of collagen, Elastin, and enamel protein.

20... TRYPTOPHAN (Essential Amino Acid) - Tryptophan is a natural relaxant, helps

alleviate insomnia by inducing normal sleep; reduces anxiety & depression; helps in the
treatment of migraine headaches; helps the immune system controling certain intractable
pain; helps reduce the risk of artery & heart spasms; works with Lysine in reducing
cholesterol levels.

21... TYROSINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid) - Transmits nerve impulses to the brain;
helps overcome depression; Improves memory; increases mental alertness; promotes the
healthy functioning of the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands.... Tyrosine is synthesized
in the body from phenylalanine. Like phenylalanine, tyrosine is intimately involved with
the important brain neurotransmitters epinephine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Animals subjected to stress in the laboratory have been found to have reduced levels of
norepinephrine. Treating with tyrosine prior to stressing the animals prevents reduction of
this neurotransmitter. Findings such as these led to human tyrosine experiments in which
soldiers undergoing various forms of stress were given tyrosine to see what effect it might
have on their performance. In one of these experiments, conditions were created that
simulated a rapid ascent to 15,500 feet. This dramatically stresses the mind and body and
significantly diminishes the oxygen supply to the brain. Some of those soldiers were given
tyrosine supplements prior to this challenge and some were not. Those who got the tyrosine
performed much better on a variety of tests than those who did not get the supplements.
The tyrosine-dosed were more alert, efficient, less anxious and had fewer complanits about
the physical discomforts during the trial. There is also growing clinical evidence that
suggest tyrosine may be an effective anti-depressant and even useful in some major forms
of depression. (Vitawise)

22... VALINE (Essential Amino Acid) - Valine promotes mental vigor, muscle coordination
and calms emotions.

References:

1. website... Ask Tom O'Brien

2. website... Chemical PATHWAY Structures
3. website... amino acid side-chains pack against one another within 20 of the known
protein structures
4. website...
5. Dr. Atkins' Vita-Nutrient Solution - Dr. Robert C. Atkins, M.D.
6. The Healing Nutrients Within Facts, Finding and New Research on Amino Acids -
Eric R. Braverman, M.D.
7. The Latest Advances in Sports Nutrition - Tara Watkins - Vitamin Retailer,
November 1995, p. 42-49.
8. Perscription for Nutritional Healing - James F. Balch, -M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch,
C.N.C - 1990 - Garden City Park, New Jersey: Avery Publishing
9. The Doctor's Vitamin and Mineral Encyclopedia - Simon Saul Hendler, M.D., Ph.D.
(New York, New York: Simon and Schuster, 1990).