What is the difference between essential and nonessential amino acids? Who do they work, and what function do they perform in the human body?
Most people on this planet are, almost without exception, unaware of the answer to that question. Yet again, we eat what we eat to satisfy our hunger and the sensation and taste of food without thinking about the nutritional value of food or how our bodies process food.
Essential amino acids are amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through dietary sources. Nonessential amino acids are amino acids that the body can synthesize from other amino acids or other metabolic pathways.
Essential amino acids are required in the diet to ensure proper growth and development. Nonessential amino acids are not essential for growth and development but may be important for other metabolic processes.
How Does The Body Synthesize Nonessential Amino Acids
Nonessential amino acids are those that the body can produce from other compounds. The body synthesizes nonessential amino acids from various compounds, including glucose, fatty acids, and other amino acids.
Synthesizing these amino acids begins with the breakdown of the compounds into their components. These components are then recombined into the desired amino acids using enzymes, co-enzymes, and other substances to facilitate the process.
The body can also obtain nonessential amino acids from dietary sources, such as proteins and other foods.
How do Essential Amino Acids Work
Essential amino acids are the building blocks of proteins necessary for many bodily functions.
Once consumed, essential amino acids are broken down, absorbed, and used by the body to repair and build new proteins.
These proteins are used for muscle growth and repair, enzyme and hormone production, and other metabolic processes.
Essential amino acids also maintain healthy cells and tissues, help maintain a healthy immune system, and provide energy.
What Happens to our Bodies if we Lack the Required Essential Amino Acids
Suppose we lack the required essential amino acids. In that case, our bodies will not be able to produce the proteins necessary to support growth and development, which can lead to various health problems.
Our muscles will weaken, our immune system will be compromised, and we may experience fatigue, digestive issues, and weakened bones.
Additionally, if we do not get enough essential amino acids, our bodies will break down our muscle tissue to provide them, which can lead to further health problems.