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All About Amino Acids

More About Amino Acids

The molecular building blocks of protein

Amino acids are essential for many basic life and body functions.*

Amino acids are essential in the assembly of proteins for both collagen and muscle tissue.* They are required for the production of certain neurotransmitters and enzymes for the digestion of foods and other biochemical processes including detoxification. They are required for the production of genetic materials and hormones and so much more.*

Did you know? Amino acids and the proteins they comprise account for approximately 75% of the human body’s dry weight.

Types of amino acids

Despite over 500 known amino acids, with an infinite number of possible variations, there are only 20 amino acids deemed necessary for human health. These amino acids are grouped into three categories: essential, non-essential, and conditionally essential.

Some amino acids can also be classified as branched-chain amino acids, as well as other amino acids of nutritional value that don’t neatly fit into these other categories.

There are several amino acids, peptides and amino acid-like nutrients that support various body systems, including L-Carnitine, N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC), Citrulline, Glutathione, and others.*

Amino Acids Brochure Cover

Can’t get enough info about amino acids?

Download our Guide to Amino Acids

Try amino acid powders for sports nutrition

Need your amino acids but don’t relish the thought of popping mass quantities of capsules and tablets, or choking down giant pills? You’re definitely not alone. No worries, an amino acid powder is just what the trainer ordered.

  • A powdered amino acid is a pure powder that is quickly absorbed by the body. Unlike tablets or capsules, amino acid powders don’t need to be broken down and are more easily absorbed by your body. They’re more readily available for use and go to work more quickly.
  • Amino acid supplements in powdered form are easily added to your favorite workout beverage or protein shake.
  • Individuals with compromised digestive function or those on restricted diets may have a hard time obtaining amino acids from food and pills. Our amino acid products labeled as "Pure Powder" contain no added fillers or excipients.

All your aminos in one supplement

Do you prefer convenience without sacrificing content or quality? You just need one supplement that covers all the bases.

NOW® Sports Amino Complete™ is a unique combination of amino acids and protein:

  • Effective, proprietary blend of peptide-bound amino acid sources (whey protein isolate, soy protein isolate, sodium caseinate, and gelatin), plus free-form amino acids (L-glutamine, L-arginine, and L-ornithine).
  • Added vitamin B-6 from pyridoxine HCl for its crucial role in amino acid metabolism.*
  • All 20 common amino acids including essential, non-essential and branched-chain amino acids.

All NOW® Sports Amino Acid products and NOW® Supplements Amino Acid products are carefully screened for purity and potency and are manufactured with our industry-leading quality assurance procedures.

 

L-Arginine Sports product

The Benefits of Amino Acids

Amino Acid Main Benefit Additional Benefits
5-HTP Neurotransmitter Support* Supports Positive Mood*
Acetyl-L-Carnitine Brain and Nerve Cell Function* Transports Fatty Acids*
Cellular Energy Production*
GABA Neurotransmitter Support* May Help Promote Relaxation & Ease Nervous Tension*
Glutathione Free Radical Neutralizer* Detoxification Support*
Glycine Neurotransmitter Support* Promotes Restful Sleep*
Nervous System Support*
L-Arginine Amino Acid Nitric Oxide Precursor*
L-Carnitine Fitness Support* Cellular Energy Production*
Transports Fatty Acids*
L-Carnosine Healthy Aging* Supports Muscle Vitality*
Free Radical Scavenger*
L-Citrulline Supports Protein Metabolism* Healthy Immune System Function*
L-Cysteine Structural Support* Healthy Skin, Hair and Nails*
L-Histidine Essential Amino Acid Critical for Normal Brain Function*
Immune System Support*
L-Lysine Essential Amino Acid Supports Collagen Synthesis*
Healthy Immune Function*
L-Methionine Essential Amino Acid Supports Detox Mechanisms*
L-Ornithine Fitness Amino Acid* Healthy Protein Metabolism*
L-Phenylalanine Nervous System Support* Healthy Nervous System*
L-Proline Structural Support* Necessary for Collagen Production*
L-Theanine Tension Management* Promotes Relaxation*
Healthy Vascular Function*
L-Tryptophan Supports Relaxation* Encourages Positive Mood*
Promotes Restful Sleep*
L-Tyrosine Neurotransmitter Support* Healthy Glandular Function*
Supports Mental Alertness*
NAC Free Radical Protection* Immune System Support*
Supports Liver Health*
SAMe Nervous System Support* Supports Joint Health*
Taurine Nervous System Health* Healthy Visual Function*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.