Amino Acid

Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins, playing critical roles in various biological processes. There are 20 different amino acids, categorized into three groups: essential, non-essential, and conditional amino acids. Essential amino acids cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained through diet; these include leucine, isoleucine, valine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and histidine. Non-essential amino acids can be synthesized by the body, while conditional amino acids are usually produced but may become essential during times of stress or illness.

Amino acids contribute to muscle growth, repair tissue, support immune function, and regulate various metabolic pathways. They are found in high-protein foods such as meat, fish, dairy, and legumes, but supplementation may be beneficial for athletes, bodybuilders, or individuals with specific dietary restrictions to ensure adequate intake.