Amino acids for weight loss - what are they and how do they work?

Meat is an indispensable product in our diet. The protein included in its composition serves as a building material for muscles and nerve fibers. Sometimes people who are overweight go on a diet and limit their diet. In this case, the body may not receive enough necessary substances and both metabolism and overall well-being will suffer.

It is also important to remember that eliminating protein, on the contrary, can lead to weight gain, since some amino acids in its composition can contribute to the weight loss process.

Amino acids. What is this?

Proper metabolism

An integral component of protein, its building material, because each element of the protein chain is an amino acid. Proteins are made up of approximately 20 amino acids, but there are many more in natural structures.

If we consider an acid as a separate structure, then an amino acid is an organic substance that has an amino group (NH2) and a carboxyl group (COOH). There are about 100 similar acids in the tissues of living beings.

In addition, 20 basic ones are the material for a million non-basic acids, which is proof of the immense diversity of acids in nature.

Acids are classified as follows:

• Replaceable.
• Irreplaceable.

Nonessential amino acids can be synthesized from metabolic products within the human body. But essential substances are not formed in the human body, but are supplied with food or other substances.

That is why there is a need to replenish the full spectrum of amino groups in the body. Essential acids are always in short supply and require uninterrupted replenishment.

Moreover, with age or other changes in life, the composition of acids may change, so it is always worth replenishing your internal balance.

Best Liquid Amino Acids

Amino acids in liquid form are the third category of the expert rating. It is this form of release that is especially valued, as it involves a simple method of administration and increased digestibility. These are protein concentrates that do not linger in the gastrointestinal tract. They are almost instantly absorbed into the blood. According to Vyborexperta.ru, 3 liquid preparations became the best.

Sport Technology Nutrition Arginine 8000

Eighth place is occupied by a liquid solution of complex action with arginine, in different flavors from the domestic one. This is a dietary supplement for men and women leading an active lifestyle.

The basis of the product is arginine AKG. The substance takes part in metabolic processes, the growth of muscle tissue, stimulates the production of insulin, glycogen, growth hormone, reduces fat deposits, and ensures normal blood flow to the extremities.

Release format: liquid solution with flavorings and sweeteners. Because of this, it is taken in its pure form without mixing with drinks. The dietary supplement is suitable for injured athletes, as it speeds up the recovery process.

The packaging format is radically different - these are ampoules, each of which contains one serving of 25 mg (they account for 8000 mg of the active substance). A carton includes 20 pieces.

Advantages:

• Liquid solution with different tastes;
• High arginine content;
• Fighting obesity;
• Improved blood flow;
• Acceleration of the recovery process;
• Ampoule format.

Flaws:

• Flavorings, sweeteners;
• Fast consumption.

One serving is contained in one ampoule; you need to drink the solution before classes or physical activity. This is the best solution if you need to burn fat mass and build muscle.

Essential Amino Energy Cafe Series

In ninth position is a whole complex of amino acids with the addition of nitric oxide activators from the previously announced American manufacturer. The dietary supplement is intended for athletes of various profiles and coffee lovers to quickly build muscles.

The active formula is multi-component. L-arginine dilates blood vessels, BCAA amino acids are involved in protein production, beta-alanine increases endurance and performance, citrulline provides energy and reduces fatigue. Caffeine stabilizes metabolism and instant concentration.

The dietary supplement also includes green and black coffee extracts in the list of ingredients; they burn fat deposits and saturate the body with energy. The amino acid complex “Essential Amino Energy” guarantees fast action and rapid absorption.

The release form is a powder from which you need to prepare a coffee cocktail. One can holds 380 g, which is approximately 30 servings. There is no sugar or sweeteners, but there are flavors.

Advantages:

• Multi-component content;
• Caffeine, coffee extract;
• Powerful energy effect;
• Acceleration of instant concentration;
• Elimination of catabolic processes;
• Taste qualities.

Flaws:

• Flavors;
• Risks of sleep disturbances.

One dose is 5 g of active substances. You can stir the powder at any time of the day when you need a boost of energy and quick recovery after physical activity. But it is advisable to do this long before bedtime.

Performance Amino Liquid

Our last review is a liquid amino acid complex based on whey protein hydrolyzate. It is used for the purpose of rapid recovery after physical activity and building muscle mass.

The active formula immediately includes 19 amino acids. They are aimed at improving energy metabolism, increasing endurance, accelerating recovery, and strengthening the immune system. Whey protein hydrolyzate (40%) stimulates muscle growth, providing the best anabolic response to strength training. Despite the huge list of valuable substances, the manufacturer focused on L-arginine and L-ornithine, which have a somatotropic, lipotropic effect. The concentrate additionally contains vitamin B6, which accelerates protein metabolism.

Packaging – elongated plastic bottle with a capacity of 1000 ml, measuring cup. Inside is a liquid product with different berry flavors to choose from. It is important to note that the formula includes fructose and sweeteners.

Advantages:

• Valuable amino acid complex;
• Vitamin B6;
• Whey protein hydrolyzate;
• Pleasant taste, smell;
• Large bottle volume;
• An easy way to take it.

Flaws:

• Imperfect composition;
• Not for allergy sufferers.

The dosage of one serving is 20 ml of concentrate, which is equivalent to the capacity of a measuring cup. The bottle is enough for about 50 servings. In case of overdose, reactions from the gastrointestinal tract and allergic manifestations are possible.

Types of amino acids

To take essential acids, unique complexes are used, among them:

• Hydrolyzed form – instant absorption and quick effect.
• Free form - they are not digested, enter the bloodstream and begin to act.
• The BCAA form is a more gentle substance, but effective.

BCAAs are the best helpers for the female body. The components of this form help actively burn excess fat without harm to health.

This amino group itself is vital for health: valine, leucine, isoleucine make up half of all proteins in human muscles.

How to choose an amino acid

The best amino acid complex is selected by a personal trainer and medical specialist. Despite the safety of the nominees presented in the review, the final word always belongs to the doctor. When getting acquainted with products, be sure to take into account several factors - the release form, the doctor’s prescription, the structure of the molecules.

Release form

Any product containing amino acids can be presented in several forms of release. We reviewed the most popular ones:

• powders - require mixing with water and strict adherence to the dose, may have a unique taste, are absorbed faster than solid forms;
• tablets/capsules - are absorbed more slowly by the gastrointestinal tract, but are more convenient to take, have no taste or smell, and are distinguished by dosage accuracy;
• solutions are liquid concentrates with the best absorption rate, simple method of application, pleasant taste, but there are flavors, dyes, and sweeteners.

The first option is suitable for allergy sufferers, vegans, vegetarians, and adherents of environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic products. The second is for those who do not want to spend time preparing cocktails and cannot tolerate “chemical” tastes and smells. The third will be appreciated by those who need quick recovery.

Expert advice

Only a medical specialist will be able to say exactly what composition and type of amino acids is appropriate in your case. Therefore, before you buy anything, consult your doctor. This could be a therapist or any other specialist.

Molecular structure

To choose such a drug, you need to have a basic understanding of the structure of amino acids, what they are and where they are relevant. This information significantly narrows the search for a suitable option, for example:

• free – molecules do not interact with other components, are absorbed faster, and are often preferred by professional athletes;
• hydrolyzed - a chain of several amino acids, the absorption of which takes a little more time, which does not reduce effectiveness, but prolongs the time to achieve results;
• BCAA – active substances with branched chains, ¼ part of such molecules in muscle mass, this is a reserve source of energy, minimizing the risk of injury;
• Di-/tripeptide - the same speed as free molecules, the first part of the peptides is broken down before the amino acids take effect, the second builds protein molecules.

Another classification is also being considered. These are replaceable (produced by the body), conditionally replaceable (produced, but in small quantities), essential acids (not produced).

The benefits and harms of amino acids

Valine is an acid that has a beneficial effect on the brain and nerve center of the whole body. Improves and accelerates metabolism, the body tolerates changes in heat or cold more calmly. The main source is meat products.

Full spectrum of amino groups in the body

Leucine is an immune-containing component of the living system. It has the ability to eliminate defective cells in the body and regulate metabolic processes. Regulates blood sugar. Contained in meat, soy, and legume products.

Isoleucine is responsible for the proper functioning of muscles, their endurance and attitude to various external and internal factors. Found in nuts, fish, lentils, liver.

Methionine – helps clear blood vessels from stagnation, cleansing areas of the liver from fat accumulations.

Phenylalanine – serves as an impulse between nerve cells and the brain, improves brain activity

Tryptophan – improves the emotional state of the body, promotes good sleep, reduces anxiety and depression.

Threonine – cleanses the gastrointestinal tract, promotes rapid absorption of food.

But the slightest violation of the norm of consumption can lead to negative consequences and, instead of benefit, cause harm to health in the form of:

• Kidney disease.
• Cardiovascular disorders.
• Complications of chronic diseases.
• Circulatory disorders.
• Lethargy and systematic fatigue.

How to take amino acids when losing weight

Amino acids are available in capsules, powder and liquid form. When taking them, you need to follow the dosage and timing of use so as not to harm your health. Required time of administration: morning and evening (before bed), further use and dose depend on body parameters and the number of workouts. The amino acid intake scheme is as follows:

• liquid - drink up to 5 times a day, 3 g;
• powder – dilute 5 g with water, consume within 15-20 minutes. before and after sports, 30 minutes. before bedtime;
• in capsules (tablets) – 1-2 capsules 3-5 times a day, for 20 minutes. before training, the same amount after it. The last dose is 30 minutes before bedtime.

Amino acids for weight loss

In the fight against excess weight, acids serve as indispensable assistants. Their composition helps to break down hard-to-reach subcutaneous fat and effectively fight it.

It is best to take the necessary amino acids from food, as this is a reliable and natural way to make up for deficiencies.

Some amino acids in food:

• Tryptophan – eggs, milk.
• Methionine – grains, beef, eggs.
• Isoleucine – chicken, corn, potatoes.
• Leucine – milk, meat, corn.
• Lysine – milk, soy, beef.
• Valine – milk, dried beef.
• Phenylalanine – legumes, grains.

A balance of these foods in your daily diet along with regular exercise is the key to early success.

However, you can also use special nutritional supplements to speed up the catalysis of fats.

Supplement use

First of all, when using supplements, you need to monitor how fat burning and eliminating hunger go in the first days. The amino acid leptin is responsible for these processes; it is only a supplement to hard training, otherwise just one intake of substances can lead to negative consequences.

On the other hand, it is worth monitoring the condition of your body so that regular workouts do not turn into exhausting torture for the body. When taking supplements, the process of catabolism and breakdown of muscle tissue occurs, so it is necessary to take care of the muscles without overstraining them.

Amino acid rating

Like proteins, amino acids are a favorite product for athletes. Therefore, the VyborExpert team analyzed the experience of professional athletes and bodybuilders to identify the best manufacturers and the most popular dietary supplements.

We assessed the leaders on a number of parameters:

• Release form;
• Classification of amino acids;
• Additional additives;
• Therapeutic properties;
• Speed ​​of absorption, bioavailability;
• Indications, contraindications;
• Packaging form;
• Subtleties of administration, daily dosage;
• Risks of developing adverse reactions;
• Price, manufacturer's reliability.

The result of the comparative analysis was a top list of 10 positions. These are 3 nominees in the category of powders, 4 – tablets, 3 – liquid dietary supplements. Thanks to customer reviews, the strengths and weaknesses of the products were identified, their effectiveness was confirmed, and drugs of questionable quality were eliminated.

Rules for taking supplements

A modern manufacturer provides supplements containing amino acids in any form. There are several life hacks that will help you go through the weight loss process faster and safer:

• The best time to take is morning.
• The use of amino acid supplements should not be combined with other medications.
• It is better to drink the supplement with juice - the release of insulin promotes rapid fat burning.
• If you have chronic diseases, you should consult a doctor.

Which amino acid is better

We have offered you 10 fresh solutions on which amino acid complex to buy to improve physical parameters and maintain health during intense training. If you still haven’t made your choice, listen to the recommendations of Vyborexperta.ru:

• Vplab L-Glutamine – pure glutamine with a cumulative effect, better absorption rate;
• Now L-Lysine 500 mg – lysine, which improves calcium absorption and increases resistance to viruses;
• Maxler Lysine 1000 - the best combination of price and quality, high benefits for ligaments, joints, bones;
• Scitec Nutrition Tryptophan – hypoallergenic tryptophan, control of appetite, psycho-emotional background, precursor of serotonin;
• Sport Technology Nutrition Arginine 8000 – arginine, fights fat deposits, convenient ampoule format;
• Essential Amino Energy Cafe Series – best taste, amino acid complex with coffee extract;
• Performance Amino Liquid – immediately contains 19 acids + glycine, somatotropic, lipotropic effect.

Be sure to consult your doctor before using this or that product, despite the fact that it is a dietary supplement. Even if this is not a drug, there are also contraindications and risks of developing side symptoms.

Choosing the right supplement at the pharmacy

As already mentioned, it is recommended for girls to take the BCCA form, as it is more favorable for the female body.

But there are certain selection rules that you should pay attention to when purchasing any form:

• First of all, taking medications means a special diet and physical activity.
• For women, it is best to find carnitines, glutamines, and arginine in the composition.
• Watch the expiration date carefully.
• Pay attention to the bitter taste, it should be present in any form.

One can expect negative consequences from synthetically formulated additives if all the rules are not followed. It is worth noting that a slight overdose will not harm the body, since the components are natural.

But, prolonged oversaturation with proteins entails problems with the kidneys and the reverse process - weight gain.

What foods contain amino acids

"Golden rule" of reception

There is a unique way to take it effectively and get quick results: take supplements 20 minutes before training and wait 20 minutes after it and take a dose of proteins. The secret is that after training the body has used up its reserves and requires new approaches of acids, thus new cells are formed.

So, taking amino acids can be done using products that contain the necessary components or special additives. But the use of supplements must be combined with exercise and diet. Undoubtedly, strict adherence to the rules will lead to the fastest results!

Useful video about choosing amino acids:

Basic functions of amino acids

To begin the list of reasons for why amino acids are needed, it is worth combining the concepts protein and protein, which are essentially the same thing - the building material for the cell. Amino acids are proteins that are divided into fractions during the digestion process. Thus, sports amino acids are nutrients that are ready to be absorbed. They practically do not need to be digested and quickly enter the cell.

Amino acids are divided into two groups: essential, that is, protein structures that the body cannot synthesize on its own. They must be obtained from food. And replaceable ones or those that are created in cells from other amino acids. There are also substances similar in structure to protein molecules. For example, l-carnitine, GABA, taurine and others that are actively involved in metabolism.

Amino acids are needed by the body for:

• Protein synthesis and cell construction.
• Energy release. The breakdown of amino acids occurs differently than the digestion of carbohydrates, which gives the body significantly more energy during exercise. This property is used by bodybuilders and athletes who take supplements before exercise.
• Production of hormones and enzymes. Thus, the presence of essential amino acids indirectly affects the entire endocrine system and digestion.
• Suppression of catabolism. An adequate supply of amino acids prevents the destruction of muscle cells during the recovery process.
• Corrections of fat metabolism. BCAAs can influence the production of the hormone leptin, which regulates the amount of fat reserves in the body. L-carnitine stimulates the utilization of fats directly in cells.

Video about amino acids in sports nutrition

The most common area of ​​application of protein compounds is bodybuilding. Athletes independently choose which supplements to use to quickly build muscle mass and burn fat. The videos explain why athletes need amino acids, what bcaa drugs are, how bodybuilders take them, and what results they get.

BCAA amino acids

Amino acids and BCAA, how to choose? Zina Rudenko

Which is better protein or amino acids?

What's the difference between protein and amino acids?

Sports nutrition for women: different goals - different means

Although many women today choose the gym to stay in shape, sports amino acids still remain “men’s territory.”
Suffice it to mention that all studies regarding the effect of proteins on muscle growth were carried out exclusively on representatives of the stronger sex. Therefore, sports supplements for girls and the regimen for taking them are a field for experimentation. First you need to define the task. It could be:

• gaining muscle mass;
• weight loss;
• creating relief while maintaining weight.

Now that the goal has been determined, we can move on to talking about supplements.