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amino acids
Amino acids are important building blocks of peptides and proteins. Of the total of 20 proteinogenic amino acids (L-amino acids), nine (isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, valine) are essential for adult humans and additionally histidine for infants. They must therefore be taken in with food. Insufficient intake of these amino acids can lead to restrictions in the body's own protein synthesis. Proteins are functional and structural components of our cells and tissues. In addition, amino acids serve as messenger substances in the nervous system and are involved in the formation of hormones, enzymes and other endogenous substances. Via protein or amino acid degradation, they also contribute to meeting energy needs.
Unbound, i.e. as free amino acids, they can influence the taste of food; the best-known example of this is glutamic acid or its salt glutamate. There are also food supplements in which isolated amino acids are offered, partly individually, partly in combination, for example for athletes.
Stand: 7/11/2023
