What are essential amino acids?

Estimated read time: 3,9 minutes.

In this Be Levels post we tell you what essential amino acids (EAA) are and what makes them so special, as well as their benefits and how they can optimize your performance and health.

Essential amino acids play a key role in the functioning of our bodies , as they are necessary for a wide range of biological processes. They act as the building blocks of proteins, essential for repairing tissues, producing energy and regulating various bodily functions.

However, what makes them really special is that our body cannot synthesize them on its own , which means we have to obtain them through food or supplements.

What are the 9 essential amino acids?

These organic compounds form the basis of proteins , and are essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as providing us with energy.

Of the 20 amino acids that exist, only 9 are considered essential because the human body cannot produce them on its own, which means that we must obtain them externally, through diet or supplements.

The 9 essential amino acids are:

• Histidine
• Isoleucine
• Leucine
• Lysine
• Methionine
• Phenylalanine
• Threonine
• Tryptophan
• Valine

These amino acids are vital for functions such as protein synthesis, hormone production and immune system maintenance . A balanced diet that includes protein-rich sources such as meat, fish, eggs, soy or specific supplements can ensure their consumption in adequate quantities.

Main functions of essential amino acids

There are many functions of essential amino acids , which provide multiple benefits for both athletes and people seeking to improve their general health. We highlight the following:

1. Protein synthesis

EAAs are the building blocks of proteins, which are essential for:

• Repair muscle tissue.
• Promote muscle growth.
• Improve strength and endurance.

2. Production of anabolic hormones

Leucine , in particular, activates the mTOR pathway , which stimulates the synthesis of proteins and hormones such as insulin and IGF-1, two hormones that are crucial for:

• Increase muscle mass.
• Recover tissues after exercise.

3. Muscle recovery and fatigue reduction

Branched-chain amino acids ( BCAAs), such as isoleucine, valine, and leucine, help reduce muscle catabolism and improve recovery after intense training.

In addition, they reduce tryptophan levels in the brain , minimizing serotonin production, which delays fatigue during exercise.

4. Strengthening the immune system

EAAs are also essential for maintaining a healthy immune system , helping us avoid disease and improving physical performance.

When is it advisable to take essential amino acid supplements?

Although essential amino acids are found in foods such as meat, fish and soy, there are specific situations where supplements can be of great help , such as the following:

Sport and exercise

• Pre-workout : EAA supplements can quickly provide additional amino acids and prepare the muscles.
• During training : especially during long or high-intensity sessions, supplements help maintain energy levels and prevent muscle loss.
• After training : they promote rapid muscle recovery and rehydrate the body.

In digestive pathologies

People suffering from disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) benefit from free amino acids, which do not require enzymatic degradation.

During fasting

If you take them before eating any food, on an empty stomach, they will prevent the loss of muscle mass and optimize metabolism without breaking the fasting state.

If you want to know more, don't hesitate to read our post in which we tell you when and how to take essential amino acids . Here's a sneak peek:

• Pre-workout : Take 16g of essential amino acids mixed with water about 30-45 minutes before your training session to maximize your energy and prepare your body for the effort.
• Intra-workout : During long duration workouts (more than 1 hour), another 16g serving will help you maintain performance and electrolyte balance.
• Post-workout : Although not essential, after training, an amino acid supplement can promote physical recovery.

ACE Aminolytes: The All-In-One Supplement

At Be Levels, we understand the importance of offering effective solutions to improve your performance. That's why we present to you ACE Aminolytes , an all-in-one supplement designed to:

• Improve muscle performance and endurance.
• Speed ​​up recovery.
• Rehydrate the body during and after exercise.

ACE Aminolytes combines:

• Essential amino acids (EAA) and BCAA.
• Creatine Creapure®.
• Essential minerals.

It is designed for:

• Endurance athletes (cycling, running, trail).
• People who regularly train at high intensity.
• Individuals undergoing convalescence or in the elderly to preserve muscle mass.

With ACE Aminolytes you will improve your performance, recovery and hydration in endurance sports , and you will also take care of your body from within. You will notice its effects within 5-10 minutes after ingestion.

If you want to know the best essential amino acids, click here .