HEALTH REPORT
Amino Power What are amino acids , and why are they important? Discover why your body needs these compounds in order to function correctly.
1 Exercise performance and recovery: Providing the body with amino acids is essential for stimulating
Amino acids are molecules found in all living things. They are often referred to as the ‘building blocks’ of protein because they are essential for protein creation, as well as for many other critical body functions, including hormone and neurotransmitter health. Amino acids need to be taken into the body via the food you eat. They are concentrated in protein-rich foods, such as meat and fish, as well as in vegan- and vegetarian-friendly plant- based sources, like soybeans, peas, hemp and pumpkin seeds, chickpeas and lentils. Avoiding deficiencies
muscle protein synthesis, which in turn allows the body to build muscle more effectively. Amino acids can enhance athletic performance by stimulating muscle growth, accelerating muscle recovery and reducing soreness following exercise. 3 Overall energy: Fatigue is often a major barrier to training consistently and
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An inadequate diet can impact amino acid status in the body, as can illness, infection, surgery and certain medications. Deficiencies of essential amino acids may have a damaging effect on the body, including health of the immune, hormone, reproductive and neural systems, as well as digestion, growth and development, and metabolism. Taking amino acids in supplement form is a convenient way to ensure optimum levels are present in the body, to improve physical health, strength and fitness, optimise athletic performance, muscle development and repair, and support mental processes. Benefits for all Different life stages and activities can create different requirements for different amino acids. The key benefits of amino acids are:
achieving fitness goals. Amino acids help to combat fatigue and maintain energy levels throughout a workout regime, ensuring that you stay energised and focused no matter how demanding the routine is. Amino acids are also vital for speeding up post-workout recovery and
minimising soreness, so you can get back to your fitness program faster.
Mood and mental health: Amino acids maintain mental and emotional health by encouraging sound and restorative sleep, as well as improving energy and motivation and alleviating mood disorders, like depression.
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ISSUE 73 • 2025
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