Amino acids are the basic molecular form that make up proteins, and they are the foundation of living organisms. As the primary nutritional element for the human body, proteins cannot be directly utilized by the body. Instead, they need to be broken down into amino acid molecules in order to be absorbed and utilized. When the body's nutritional intake is insufficient to meet its needs, amino acids can be supplemented through injection or oral intake. So what are the benefits and effects of amino acids?
Synthesis of tissue proteins
Proteins are the primary nutritional element for the human body, and amino acids are their basic building blocks. If the body lacks any essential amino acid, it will hinder the synthesis of proteins and affect the body's metabolism.
Maintaining nitrogen balance
Nitrogen balance refers to the equal amount of nitrogen intake and nitrogen excretion through feces, urine, and skin. In reality, it is a continuous balance between protein synthesis and breakdown. If the intake of protein exceeds the body's regulatory capacity, the balance mechanism will be disrupted. On the other hand, if the body lacks protein, the existing proteins will continue to break down, leading to negative nitrogen balance.
Conversion into fat or sugar
The α-keto acids produced from the breakdown metabolism of amino acids can be metabolized through different pathways involved in carbohydrate or fat metabolism. They can be converted into sugar and fat, or enter the tricarboxylic acid cycle for oxidation and decomposition into carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy.
Participating in enzyme formation
Amino acids participate in the formation of enzymes, hormones, and some vitamins. Enzymes are chemically composed of proteins, such as pepsin. The components of nitrogen-containing hormones are proteins or their derivatives, such as growth hormone and insulin. Some vitamins are transformed from or bound to proteins. Enzymes, hormones, and vitamins play crucial roles in regulating physiological functions and catalyzing metabolic processes.
Side effects of amino acids
In theory, there are no side effects from consuming high-protein foods to adequately supplement amino acids. However, there are many amino acid oral solutions and nutritional supplements available on the market nowadays, which many people buy and consume. What are the side effects when the body is not deficient in amino acids but excessive supplementation occurs?
Causing obesity
Amino acids are suitable for patients with protein deficiency and physical weakness, such as liver function failure and muscle weakness. If a person has sufficient nutrition and does not lack amino acids, excessive supplementation can lead to obesity and other conditions.
Increasing the risk of diabetes
A high-protein diet can increase the incidence of diabetes. Amino acids are the basic units of proteins, and excessive intake of amino acids can increase the risk of developing diabetes.
