Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) have received a lot of hype lately as a superstar sports supplement that can bump up muscle building and promote quicker recovery between workouts. However, the potential benefits of BCAAs extend way beyond the gym, with new studies showing that supplementing with these essential amino acids could also improve liver…
Have you heard about the incredible health benefits of L-glutamine? First used in powder form by people in the fitness industry (including bodybuilders) who were looking to preserve muscle tissue, L-glutamine (also simply called glutamine) is an amino acid that is a building block of protein and needed by your body in large amounts. The most common original uses…
A favorite of both bodybuilders and pro athletes alike, leucine is revered for its incredible ability to boost muscle mass and improve athletic performance. Not only that, but it can also slow muscle deterioration in older adults and help keep blood sugar under control. Luckily, there are plenty of options for upping your intake of…
Do you find yourself in love with Asian food but not thrilled with soy sauce? Welcome to the world of coconut aminos. Not only are coconut aminos a great substitute for soy sauce, but they're also a powerful little ingredient on their own. Coconut aminos are gluten-free, non-GMO, certified organic, soy-free, MSG-free, kosher and vegan.…
While you may not be familiar with the term specifically, you probably already rely on glycine every day to strengthen your body and, frankly, allow it to work properly. What is glycine used for? This amino acid is essential for many different muscle, cognitive and metabolic functions. It helps break down and transport nutrients like glycogen and…
Protein is incredibly important when it comes to your health. It makes up the structure of your bones, muscles and skin, and it is used to build tissues and synthesize hormones, enzymes and neurotransmitters. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, which is why getting enough essential amino acids in your diet is critical…
We know that polyphenols are natural plant compounds that benefit health in several ways, but there is not a whole lot of proven research on their full powers. What we do know is that evidence suggest these antioxidant powerhouse compounds can support heart health and potentially combat disease. It's believed this is due to the…
What is L-theanine, and what is it used for? L-theanine (also called theanine or sometimes r-glutamylethylamide) is an amino acid that impacts nerve impulses in the brain and the release of neurotransmitters, including GABA. It is known as natural anxiolytic because it can have a calming, sedative effect on the body and mind without making you…
Citrulline is an amino acid often used to improve overall health and ramp up your fitness routine. Although it's not considered an essential amino acid, it is still incredibly important to health and boasts a wide array of health benefits. Getting in your fix of foods rich in this key compound can help support better…
Chances are you haven't heard much about threonine, but this amino acid is involved in a range of biological processes. It's best known for its role in forming the foundation of connective tissues like collagen and elastin. It also helps regulate digestion, mood and muscle growth. Essential amino acids like threonine are the building blocks of…