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AMINO
ACIDS, ANTIOXIDANTS |
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AMINO ACIDS THE FUNCTION OF AMINO ACIDS Amino acids are the chemical units or the "building
blocks ' as they are popularly called, that make up proteins. Protein
could not exist without the proper combination of amino acids. To
understand how vital amino acids are, you must understand how essential
proteins are to life. It is protein that provides the structure for all
living things. Each organism from the largest animal to the tiniest
microbe is composed of protein. And in its various forms, it is protein
that participates in the vital chemical processes that enable us to
sustain life. WHAT'S ON THE SHELVES Top of page Amino acids are available in combination with various multivitamin formulas, as protein mixtures, in a wide variety of food supplements, and in a number of amino acid formulas. They can be purchased as capsules, tablets, and powders. Most amino acid supplements are derived from egg protein, yeast protein, or animal protein. The crystalline free form amino acids are generally extracted from a variety of grain products. Brown rice bran is a prime source, although cold-pressed yeast and milk proteins are also used. Amino acids in the free form are the purest. Free form amino acids can be taken for rapid absorption. These white crystalline amino acids are stable at room temperature and decompose when heated to temperatures between 350 F and 660 F (180 C and 350 C). THE ABC'S OF AMINO ACIDS Top of page Each amino acid has specific functions and is needed to prevent various symptoms from developing. The many functions and deficiency symptoms of twenty-eight amino acids are described below. When taking amino acids individually for healing purposes, take them on an empty stomach to avoid competition with other amino acids for absorption. Amino acids compete with each other for entry to the brain. L-Alanine Top of page L-Alanine is the amino acid that aids in the metabolism of glucose, a simple carbohydrate that the body uses for energy. L-Arginine Top of page L-Arginine causes retardation of tumors and cancer, aids in leer detoxification, assists in the release of growth hormones and maintenance of a healthy immune system, detoxifies ammonia, increases sperm count in males, and aids in honey disorders and trauma. Scar tissue that forms during wound healing has a high arginine content. This amino acid is needed for protein synthesis and for optimum growth. An increase in muscle mass and a reduction of body fat occurs in the presence of L-arginine. It also helps increase production of collagen, and is good for liver disorders such as cirrhosis of the leer and fatty liver. L-Arginine should be avoided if pregnant or lactating. L-Asparagine Top of page L-Asparagine is needed to maintain balance in the central nervous system, preventing you Item Demo overly nervous or overly calm. L-Aspartic Acid Top of page Because L-aspartic acid increases stamina, it is good for fatigue. Chronic fatigue may result from low levels of aspartic acid due to lowered cellular energy. This amino acid also protects the liver by aiding in the removal of excess ammonia from the body. L-aspartic acid combines with other amino acids to form molecules that absorb toxins and remove them from the bloodstream. It aids cell function and RNA/DNA formation. L-Carnitine Top of page L-Carnitine helps to transport long-chain fatty acids. By preventing fatty build-up, this amino acid aids in weight loss, decreases the risk for heart disease, and improves athletic ability. Carnitine can be manufactured in the body if sufficient amounts of Iysine, B,, Be, and iron are available. Vegetarians are more likely to be deficient in carnitine due to a diet that is low in Iysine. Carnitine also enhances the effectiveness of antioxidao- vitamins E and C. L-Citrulline Top of page L-Citrulline promotes energy, stimulates the immune system, metabolizes to L-arginine, and detoxifies ammonia, which damages living cells. L-Cysteine Top of page L-Cysteine has a high sulfur content. This amino acid: formed from L-methionine
in the body; however, vitimin B6 is necessary for this conversion. L-Cystein
helps to detoxify harmful toxins, thereby protectin and preserving the
cells. Cysteine is a precursor to L-glutathione. One of the best free
radical destroyers, works best when taken with selenium and vitamin E.
In addition to protecting the cells from the harmful effects of
radiation, it protects the liver and brain fror damage due to alcohol
and cigarette smoke. Supplementation with L-cysteine is recommended in
the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. L-Cysteine has chelating effect,
removing excess copper from the body. This amino acid also promotes the
burning of fat and the building of muscle. L-Cystine Top of page Like L-Cysteine, L-cystine has a high sulfur content. It aids in the formation of skin and is important in detoxification. By reducing the body's absorption of copper, cystine protects against copper toxicity. This amino acid is necessary for the healing of burns and wounds after surgery. It promotes healing in respiratory disorders such as bronchitis, and plays an important role in the act*ity of the white blood cells, which fight disease. It assists in the supply of insulin to the pancreas, which is needed for assimilation of sugars and starches. Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid Top of page Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) inhibits cells from overtiring. GABA can be taken to calm the body in much the same way as vellum, librium, and other tranquilizers without the fear of addiction. Take 750 milligrams of this amino acid for its tranquilizing effect. GABA is being recommended in place of many drugs. With niacinamide and inositol, it prevents anxiety and stress-related messages from reaching the motor centers of the brain by filling its receptor site. GABA functions as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system by decreasing neuron activity. L-Glutamic Acid Top of page L-Glutamic acid (or glutamate) increases firing of neurons in the nervous system. It metabolizes sugars and fats, and detoxifies ammonia when used with L-glutamine. This amino acid also helps correct personality disorders. Besides glucose, glutamic acid is the only compound used for brain fuel. The brain converts glutamic acid to a compound that regulates brain cell activity. L-Glutamine Top of page L-Glutamine is important in alcoholism, craving for sugar, mental ability, impotence, fatigue, epilepsy, senility, schizophrenia, mental retardation, peptic ulcers, and maintenance of a healthy digestive tract. It is converted to glutamic acid in the brain, which is essential for cerebral function, and increases the amount of GABA needed. Do not substitute glutamic acid for glut amine in the treatment of alcoholism; it does not work as well. L-Glutathione Top of page L-Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that inhibits the formation of free radicals. It protects against damage from cigarette smoking and radiation, helps reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and x-rays, and combats alcohol poisoning. As a detoxifier of metals and drugs, it aids in the treatment of blood and liver disorders. L-Glycine Top of page L-Glycine retards muscle degeneration by supplying additional creatine. It is necessary for central nervous system function and a healthy prostate. Its inhibitory action helps prevent epilepsy. This amino acid has been used in the treatment of bipolar depression. L-Glycine is needed by the immune system for the synthesis of the nonessential amino acids. Too much of this amino acid can displace glucose in the metabolic chain and cause fatigue. The proper amount produces more energy. L-Histidine Top of page L-Histidine is significant in growth and repair of tissues, ulcers, hyperacidity, digestion, and gastric juices. It is needed for the treatment of allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, anemia, and in the production of red and white blood cells. Histamine is formed from histidine, and is released by the cells usually as an immune response. Both histamine and L-histidine can chelate trace elements like copper from the body. L-lsoleucine Top of page L-lsoleucine is needed for hemoglobin formation and also stabilizes and regulates the blood sugar and energy levels. It is metabolized in muscle tissue. Always take with the correct balance of leucine and valine. A deficiency of L-isoleucine can lead to symptoms similar to those for hypoglycemia. L-Leucine Top of page L-Leucine lowers elevated blood sugar levels. It must b taken in balance with isoleucine and valine. This im portent amino acid promotes the healing of bones shn, and muscle tissue. This is a recommended supple merit for those recovering from surgery. Leucine inns be taken in moderation, otherwise hypoglycemia ma result. L-Lysine Top of page As an essential building block for all protein, the amin acid L-lysine is needed for proper growth and ban development in children. It helps calcium absorption and maintains nitrogen balance in adults. Among th many functions of this amino acid is its ability to figh cold sores and herpes viruses; to aid in the production of antibodies, hormones, and enzymes; and to help in collagen formation and in the repair of tissue. Because it helps to build muscle protein, it is especially important for those recovering from surgery and sports injuries. It lowers high serum triglycerides as well. Deficiencies result in loss of energy, inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, hair loss, anemia, retarded growth, and reproduction disorders. L-Methionine Top of page L-Methionine is not synthesized in the body, and must be obtained from food sources or from dietary supplements. In addition to being a good source of sulfur, L-methionine is important in the treatment of rheumatic fever and toxemia resulting from pregnancy. It assists in the breakdown of fats, preventing the build-up of fat in the liver and arteries, which obstructs blood flow to the brain, heart, and kidneys. This amino acid helps the digestive system, interacts with other substances to detoxify harmful agents, aids muscle weakness, helps to prevent brittle hair, and is beneficial for allergic chemical sensitivities and osteoporosis. Cysteine and taurine may rely on methionine for synthesis in the body. Because the body uses L-methionine to derive a brain food called choline, it would be wise to supplement the diet with choline or lecithin (which is high in choline) so that the supply of L-methionine is not depleted. L-Ornithine Top of page L-Ornithine helps release a growth hormone that metabolizes excess body fat when combined with L-arginine and L-carnitine. It is necessary for immune system and liver function. This amino acid also detoxifies ammonia and promotes healing. Do not give this supplement to children unless prescribed by your physician. L-Phenylalanine Top of page L-Phenylalanine is often used to treat depression. It produces neuro-transmitters, is used by the brain to manufacture norepinephrine, and aids in memory, learning, and obesity Because of its action in the central nervous system, this amino acid elevates moods, enables the individual to overcome depression, and decreases the pain associated with migraines, menstruation, and arthritis. L-Phenylalanine should not be used by pregnant women or those who suffer from anxiety attacks, high blood pressure, PKU (phenylketonuria), or with preexisting pigmented melanoma (a type of cancer). DL-Phenylalanine Top of page DL-Phenylalanine is very effective in the control at pain, especially in those with arthritis. It functions as a building block of all amino acids, increases merits] alertness, suppresses the appetite, and aids in Parkinson's disease. Use with caution if you are pregnant or diabetic, or if you have high blood pressure. Do not use if you suffer from anxiety attacks. L-Proline Top of page L-Proline improves skin texture by aiding in the pro duction of collagen, heals cartilage, and strengthens joints, tendons, and the heart muscle. L-Serine Top of page L-Serine is needed for proper metabolism of fats and fatty acids, muscle growth, and a healthy immune system, and it aids in the production of immunoglobulins and antibodies. L-Taurine Top of page High concentrations of L-taurine are found in the heart muscle, white blood cells, skeletal muscle, and central nervous system. This amino acid aids in fat digestion, heart disorders, hypoglycemia, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and edema, and acts as a building block of all the amino acids. It is a key component of bile, which is needed for the digestion of fats, the absorption of fat soluble vitamins, and the control of serum cholesterol levels. Epilepsy, anxiety, hyperactivity, and poor brain function are related to L-taurine deficiency. L-Taurine is not found in most anilnal proteins; therefore, synthesis by the body is crucial. Taurme may be synthesized from cysteine, but requires vitamin B6 for this conversion. L-Threonine Top of page L-Threonine helps to maintain protein balance in the body. It is important for the formation of collagen and elastic, and aids liver and lipotropic function when combined with L-aspartic acid and L-methionine. L-Threonine is present in the heart, central nervous system, and skeletal muscle. This important amino acid helps to control epileptic seizures. L-Tryptophan Top of page L-Tryptophan is necessary for the production of niacin. It cures
insomnia, helps stabilize moods, and is used by the brain to produce
serotonin, a necessary neurotransmitter that transfers nerve impulses
from one cell to another and is responsible for normal sleep. It helps
control hyperactivity in children, alleviates stress, is good for the
heart, aids in weight control, and enhances the release of growth
hormones necessary for the production of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). A
sufficient amount of vitamin B6 is necessary for the formation of
tryptophan, which, in turn, is required for the formation of serotonin. L-Tyrosine Top of page L-Tyrosine is important in the treatment of anxiety, deprssion, allegies, and headaches. It aids in the production of melanin (pigment of the skin and hair) and in the functions of the adrenal, thyroid, and pituitary glands. Low plasma levels of tyrosine have been associated with hypothyroidism, It acts as a mood elevator, suppresses the appetite, and reduces body fat. It is in valved in the initial breakdown of phenylalanine in the liver. L-Tyrosine can be produced from L-phenylalanine, A lack of tyrosine triggers a deficiency of the hormone norephinephrine at a specific brain location, which results in depression and mood disorders In addition to being a precursor fior norepinephrine, L-tyrosine is also used to synthesize epinephrine and dopamine. It has been used for withdrawal from drugs. L-Valine Top of page L-Valine has a stimulant effect. A deficiency results in negative hydrogen balance of the body. For better muscle metabolism, tissue repair, and nitrogen balance, use valine with leucine and isoleucine. ANTIOXIDANTS Top of page There is a group of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes called antioxidants that help protect our body from the formation of free radicals. Free radicals are atoms or groups of atoms that can cause damage to our cells, impairing our immune system and leading to infections and various degenerative diseases. There are three known free radicals--the super oxide, the hydroxyl, and peroxide. They may be formed by exposure to radiation and toxic chemicals, overexposure to the sun's rays, or through the action of various metabolic processes, such as the use of stored fat molecules for energy. The way in which free radicals are normally kept in check is by the action of free radical scavengers that occur naturally in the body. These scavengers neutralize the free radicals. Certain enzymes serve this vital function. Four important enzymes that neutralize free radicals naturally are super oxide dismutase (SOD), methione reductase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. I he body makes these as a matter of course. In addition, the work of these scavenger enzymes can be supplemented by a diet rich in antioxidants such as vitamins A, E, and C, the mineral selenium, and other nutrients. These antioxidants are also scavengers, gobbling up the free radical particles. THE ANTIOXIDANTS Top of page If the diet is inadequate or lacing the appropriate antioxidants, or if the system is overwhelmed by free radicals, you can take the following supplements to aid the body in destroying free radicals. Vitamin A Top of page Vitamin A is necessary for healthy mucous cells and promotes germ-killing enzymes. Beta-carotene and vitamin A destroy carcinogens (cancer-producing substances) . Vitamin C Top of page In addition to increasing interferon production, vitamin C is a potent stimulator of T-effector cell activity and is also a very powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C reduces lipid production in the brain and spinal cord, which frequently incur free radical damage. These sites can be protected by significant amounts of vitamin C, which is needed to cross the blood-brain barrier. Vitamin C acts as a more potent free radical scavenger in the presence of a bioflavonoid called hesperidin. Vitamin E Top of page Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that prevents fat and cell membrane rancidity and protects the coating around each cell. Vitamin E improves oxygen utilization and enhances immune response. New evidence suggests that zinc is needed to maintain normal blood concentrations of vitamin E. Gamma-Linoleic Acid (GLA) Top of page GLA is a key regulator of T-lymphocyte function in the body. GLA can be made from linoleic acid, which i found in vegetable oils, but if zinc, magnesium, an vitamins C, Be (pyridoxine), B, (niacin), and A are deft cient, the conversion may be blocked. Hydrogenate vegetable oils, margarine, or a high-fat diet can als inhibit this important conversion to GLA. Evenin primrose oil, black currant seed oil, and borage oil ar the main sources of preformed GLA. L-Cysteine Top of page This sulphur-containing amino acid is needed to produces glutathione. It is used by the liver and the lymphocytes to detoxify chemicals and germ poisons. Cystein Is a powerful detoxifier of alcohol, tobacco smoke, ant environmental pollutants, all of which are immume suppressors. L-Glutathione Top of page This powerful antioxidant rids the body of free radicals, protecting it from the harmful effects of metals, drugs, cigarette smoke, and alcohol. Selenium Top of page A partner/synergist with vitamin E, selenium is essential for the key enzyme, glutathione peroxidase (each enzyme molecule contains four selenium atoms). It stimulates increased antibody response to germ infection. Superoxide Dismuhse (SOD) Top of page SOD is an enzyme. A health body produces nearly 5 million units of SOD and its partner catalase daily. SOD revitalizes the cells and reduces the rate of cell destruction. It removes the most common free radical, super oxide. SOD also aids in the body's utilization of zinc, copper, and manganese. free radical production increases with aging, while SOD levels are reduced. The potential of SOD to slow the aging process is currently being explored. The SOD supplement in pill form mus* be enteric coated, that is, coated with a protective substance that allows the SOD pill to pass intact through the stomach acid into the small intestines to be absorbed. A supplement should be able to provide a daily amount of about 5 million units or higher. SOD naturally occurs in barley grass, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, wheat grass, and most green plants. AOX/PLX From Blotec Foods Top of page This product contains large amounts of antioxidants to aid the body in destroying free radicals.
ENZYMES WHAT ARE ENZYMES? Top of page Found in all living plant and animal matter, enzymes are
essential for maintaining proper function of the body, digesting food,
and aiding in the repair of tissue. Made up of protein, the thousands of
known enzymes play a role in virtually all body activities. In fact,
life could not be sustained without enzymes, despite the presence of
sufficient amounts of vitamins, minerals, water, and proteins.
Scientists are unable to manufacture enzymes synthetically. THE FUNCTION OF ENZYMES Top of page Enzymes assist in practically all body functions. In
hydrolysis, digestive enzymes break down food particles for storage in
the leer or muscles. This stored energy is later converted by other
enzynles for use by the body when necessary. Enzymes also utilize food
ingested by the body to construct new muscle tissue, nerve cells, bone,
skin, or glandular tissue. For example, one enzyme can take dietary
phosphorus and convert it to bone. WHAT'S ON THE SHELVES Top of page Over-the-counter enzymes are available in tablet,
capsule, powder, and liquid forms. They may be sold in combination with
each other or as separate tier Some enzymatic products may also contain
garlic help digestion. Most commercial enzyme products are made from
animal enzymes such as pancreatic and pepsin. These supplements help in
the digestion of to once it has reached the lower stomach ally the
intestil tract. Some products make their supplements from plant enzymes
(aspergillus), which begin their predigestive work in the upper stomach.
This reduces the amount of work the body has to perform, thus saving the
body's much needed enzymes. Commercially Available Enzymes Top of page There are three types of digestive enzymes available:
amylase, protease, and lipase. Amylase and pro tease are the two most
effective digestive enzymes that are secreted in high concentrations by
the human body Amylase, found in saliva, breaks down carbohydrates,
while pro tease, found in the stomach juices, helps to digest protein.
In addition, pancreatic and intestinal juices contain both enzymes. Inflazyme Forte Top of page American Biologics designed Inflazyme Forte, a specific
combination of enzymes and antioxidants, for people requiring
supplemental digestive enzymes to aid in the breakdown of proteins,
fats, and carbohydrates. Research has shown that the combination of
enzymes and antioxidants provided in Inflazyme Forte may also be
beneficial in clinical applications concerning chronic and acute
inflammation. One microgranulated tablet of Inflazyme Forte contains: Pancreatin N.F. - 800.0 mg
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