Protein IS our friend

[Guest guest]

I thought this was interesting. In Greek protein means " Of first importance "

That is also the DS motto " Protein First " The good thing is protein shakes

contain all 22 amino acids and they are pre-digested which makes them more

bioavailable.

Facts and Information

Amino Acid

Apart from water, the next most abundant substance in the body is amino acids

..

Building Blocks of Protein

Life without protein is not possible, and amino acids are the building blocks

of protein. To help you enjoy the best of life and health, you need to have a

balance of amino acids.

They function in areas that are too numerous for us to mention in depth, but are

required to build and maintain all body tissues, constitute an important part of

enzymes, hormones and body fluids, and are also responsible for regulating body

functions such as growth and digestion.

The central nervous system cannot function properly without amino acids, which

are necessary for the brain to both send and receive information. Amino acids

help form antibodies to fight infection, and serve in a myriad of other

life-giving areas that are absolutely essential in your quest for optimal

health. Protein is available in both animal and plant sources. This protein

(plant or animal) is broken down during the digestive process into amino acids.

Essential Amino Acids

The body requires approximately twenty-two amino acids, and can acquire many of

these amino acids from your daily food intake – to the point that it is possible

when our food, plant sources are all being grown in vitamin and mineral-depleted

soil. Eight (for adults) or nine (for children) amino acids cannot be

synthesized and are, therefore, essential to be taken in through nutrition (diet

or supplement).

Non-essential Amino Acids The remaining amino acids can be synthesized from

nitrogen, carbohydrates and fats. Each of the amino acids has its own specific

purpose and one can not be substituted for another. Do not be confused by the

titles of non-essential and essential amino acids. The truth is that you need

all the amino acids for overall superior mental and physical health.

D or L Forms of Amino Acids

All compounds in nature come in two forms, the L and the D form. These two

configurations are mirror images of each other biochemically. The L form is

typically the more active form in most amino acids, while only phenylalanine is

available in three active forms: L, D, and D/L. The D/L form is a 50/50 mix of

the two. DPA (d-phenylalanine) is used as an active ingredient particularly for

pain management. It works to inhibit the enzymes that break down the " opioids "

in the brain; therefore, the opioid activity increases and the person has a

greater sense of internal calm with reduced pain.

Amino Acids as Precursors for Neurotransmitters

Amino acids are precursors to dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and many

other substances critical to health and well-being. Besides building cells and

repairing tissue, the following is true:Amino acids form antibodies to combat

invading bacteria and viruses Amino acids are part of the enzyme and hormonal

system

Amino acids carry oxygen throughout the body and participate in muscle activity

They are found to be extremely useful in weight control, depression fighting,

muscle building, proper hormonal activity They are also found to be useful in

proper function of the immune system Amino acids are necessary for growth and

cellular replication throughout the body