Amino Acids 101

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. They are essential for human life and play a role in many bodily functions.

In this article, we will discuss the role and benefits of amino acids in the body and how amino acid IV therapy offers a safe, healthy, and efficient way to boost your metabolism.

Looking for something specific? Jump to the right section:

Understanding Amino Acids: The Building Blocks of Life

Essential amino acids

Every living thing uses amino acids to make protein—in fact, you could think of proteins as long chains of amino acids. Every protein comprises a unique amino acid sequence that dictates its shape, which in turn determines its role in the body. 

Amino acids are composed primarily of carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen and oxygen arranged in a similar structure. Every molecule consists of a central carbon atom linked with a basic amino group, a carboxylic acid group, a hydrogen atom and an R-group, or side-chain group. The R-group determines each amino acid’s chemical nature, which controls how amino acids act with each other and the environment. 

There are 20 different amino acids, each with a unique function. Nine amino acids cannot be made by the body and must be obtained through diet. These are known as essential amino acids. They include:

  • Histidine
  • Isoleucine
  • Leucine
  • Lysine
  • Methionine
  • Phenylalanine
  • Threonine
  • Tryptophan
  • Valine 

The body can synthesize the other 11 amino acids from various precursors. While these are known as nonessential amino acids, some may become conditionally essential under certain circumstances. For instance, during pregnancy, women may need supplemental glycine and arginine to support healthy fetal growth. 

The Essential Roles of Amino Acids in Your Body

Amino acids are essential for life. They play a role in many bodily functions, including:

  • Growth and development
  • Muscle protein synthesis
  • Neurotransmitter production
  • Hormone secretion
  • Immune system function
  • Repairing body tissue 
  • Maintaining healthy hair, skin and nails 

Now that you have a better understanding of how amino acids work, let's explore some of the benefits they can provide for your body.

Amino acids to peptides to proteins

How Amino Acids Enhance Health and Wellness

Amino acids play a crucial role in your body’s ability to maintain a healthy balance (also known as homeostasis). Some fundamental benefits of amino acids include:

Improved mood and sleep

Amino acids are necessary for the production of neurotransmitters that help regulate mood and sleep. They also contribute to higher levels of serotonin in the brain. Glycine helps regulate body temperature, which naturally lowers somewhat during sleep. 

Promote muscle growth

Amino acids are essential for protein synthesis, which is necessary for muscle growth. Isoleucine aids your body’s muscle metabolism. 

Increased energy 

Some amino acids act as precursors to ketones and glucose, providing a quick source of energy.

Enhanced cognitive function 

In addition to aiding sleep, neurotransmitters produced by amino acids are necessary for cognitive function. In a study published in November 2020, Japanese researchers found that the ingestion of seven amino acids led to improved attention, cognitive flexibility, and psychosocial functioning, which may prevent cognitive decline. The double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involved 105 participants over the age of 55. 

The seven amino acids found to boost cognitive function are:

  • Leucine
  • Lysine 
  • Phenylalanine
  • Histidine
  • Isoleucine
  • Tryptophan
  • Valine 

Boosted athletic performance

Some amino acids are used to make creatine, an essential compound for muscle contraction and strength.

Possible weight loss 

Some amino acids can help to increase energy expenditure and reduce appetite.

Healthy hormone levels

All hormones are derived from amino acids or lipids (fats or oils). Estrogen, thyroid, and insulin are examples of hormones that affect virtually every aspect of life's functions. A hormone imbalance can cause a wide range of issues, from weight gain to mood swings to insomnia. 

So, now that you’re more familiar with the role and benefits of amino acids, the question remains: How to ensure your body has the amino acids it needs? Below, we’ll explore the benefits of receiving amino acids via IV drip therapy.

Amino Acid IV Therapy 

IV therapy provides a quick, effective amino acid boost. An amino acid IV infusion is a far more efficient method of obtaining essential amino acids than consuming them in food or supplements. 

An amino acid IV infusion delivers nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system and allowing rapid absorption. Most IV therapy treatments take 30–45 minutes, with long-lasting, fast-acting results.

Discover Reset IV’s Custom Amino Acid Solutions for Optimal Health 

At Reset IV, we offer amino acid cocktails formulated to support the body’s essential processes. Any of our packages can be customized with additional vitamins or nutrients to meet your needs and health goals.

Sexual Health Support

This IV therapy package contains a blend of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals designed to support optimal sexual health. The nutrients in this package can help to improve libido, energy, and mood.

Post Workout Boost

Use the workout boost package to replenish your body's amino acids after a strenuous workout. This cocktail contains a blend of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that support rehydration, muscle building, and metabolism.

Workout Routine Support 

This robust amino acid blend supports protein metabolism, cell volumizing and anti-catabolism. It can support new muscle growth and help your body metabolize fat—perfect for maintaining gains and feeling great before, during and after your workout.

Maximizing Your Health with Amino Acid-Rich Food 

While amino acid IV therapy offers the most efficient way to maintain healthy amino acid levels, certain foods also provide excellent sources of amino acids:

  • Pork
  • Beef
  • Chicken
  • Eggs
  • Milk products
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Beans and legumes
  • Fish
  • Soy products
  • Some fruits and vegetables

Foods containing all nine essential amino acids are called complete proteins; these are mainly derived from animal sources. Foods containing some essential amino acids are known as incomplete proteins. People with a vegan or vegetarian diet must eat several types of incomplete proteins to ensure they receive all nine essential amino acids. 

Why Use Reset IV

Reset IV is a leader in premium IV therapy services. Here are a few reasons to choose us for your amino acid IV therapy needs:

  1. We offer a variety of packages that contain a blend of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that can support optimal health. Browse for the package that meets your needs!
  2. We offer quick and easy treatments on your schedule. Most treatments take 30–45 minutes.
  3. We provide quality products and services. Our IV infusions are made in the United States in an FDA-registered facility and are third-party tested.
  4. Our highly trained and certified nursing team can safely administer IV therapy treatments in the comfort of your home, office or hotel room.

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about our products and services, please give us a call. Our friendly staff will be more than happy to answer any questions you have about amino acid IV treatment.

Interested in exploring IV Therapy? We have mobile services in:

Check out our 100+ 5-star reviews on Google!