8 signs you have an amino acid deficiency

An article written by Myles Spar*, gives a clear overview of the importance of amino acids. The article defines 8 signs for a deficient in amino acids. This article can be found below:

One of the things your body could be telling you is that you’re lacking sufficient amounts of amino acids. These organic compounds are the building blocks of protein, and they play a role in all of the body’s cellular processes. Here are eight signs you have an amino acid deficiency.

Trouble Focusing

Tyrosine is an essential amino acid found in protein-rich foods like dairy products, meat, and eggs. Tyrosine helps boost your body’s production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and epinephrine that help you focus, and insufficient tyrosine may cause you to have trouble concentrating.

Fatigue

We all have days where we feel like we’re dragging. But if you find yourself constantly struggling with exhaustion, you may not be getting the amino acids you need to fuel your body.

Memory Loss

In addition to its role in energy production, acetyl-L-carnitine has been shown to improve cognition and memory.

Slow Illness Recovery

Insufficient amino acid intake can compromise your body’s ability to recover from infection by slowing the process.

Muscle Loss

In the absence of sufficient energy produced by amino acids, your body may break down muscle tissue in order to fuel itself during intense exercise. If you can’t run as fast or lift as much weight as you used to, be aware that inadequate protein intake can lead to muscle weakness.

Craving Unhealthy Foods

Do you have an insatiable sweet tooth? Are you crazy for carbs? Your brain might not be getting the amino acids it needs to help you feel satisfied. Neurotransmitters that help control your appetite are made from amino acids.

Depressed Mood

Research shows that some amino acids are precursors to neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine that are associated with depression.

Oversleeping

Can’t seem to drag yourself out of bed? If you feel like all you want to do is sleep, you could be lacking amino acids needed to energize you.

Experiencing any or all of these symptoms? There are steps you can take. Of the twenty total amino acids, nine are essential, meaning your body can’t produce them and so they must be obtained through food. To make sure you’re getting enough, scientists recommends eating a wide variety of protein sources every day.

*Source: Myles Spar