In order to understand whether amino acids are needed at all in sports, it is necessary to understand what these sports supplements are. If we confine ourselves to a brief definition, without delving into chemical terms, amino acids are what absolutely any proteins in the human body are made of. When protein food enters the body, it breaks down into amino acids during digestion, which ensure the stable functioning of all vital systems and organs.
However, another fact that makes this type of organic compounds unique is the presence of nitrogen atoms. The presence of such a component gives amino acids truly amazing functions – they help in the construction of soft tissues, muscle fibers, skin, as well as hair follicles and nails.
Why athletes need amino acids
Of course, one of the most important and basic functions of amino acids for sports, explaining why men and women need these supplements, is their amazing ability to stimulate muscle growth processes, as well as help in recovery after the training process and reduce muscle fatigue. But it doesn’t stop there. At the start of a training session, the body undergoes biochemical reactions accompanied by the release of intermediates that provoke the appearance of fatigue. For example, such an amino acid as L-Glutamin (glutamine), which acts as a source of nourishment and additional energy for the body, helps to cope with this effect.
This is why supplementation of amino acids for sport is relevant not only for those who work on the quality of muscle structure. Amino acids are a must in the diet of all people who follow an active lifestyle, whether it is a professional or amateur sport to maintain physical fitness.
If you ask why women, who are not particularly interested in building muscle mass, need amino acids in sports, the answer is another important function of this supplement. The fact that amino acids help get rid of excess body fat, and thus contribute to weight loss. For example, one study showed that the group in which women followed a diet rich in amino acids, got rid of excess weight much faster than the second.
What are the best amino acids for athletes?
In one of our previous articles we told about how to take amino acids correctly, as well as gave a complete classification of these supplements, so we will limit ourselves to a list of amino acids for sports that everyone should have:
BCAA (BCAA) – the three essential amino acids isoleucine, valine and leucine prevent the development of catabolic processes, help build muscle mass and improve the quality of your workout;
L-Glutamin – as mentioned above, glutamine is a breath of fresh air and helps you overcome fatigue and protect your immune system against overexertion and infectious diseases;
Creatine monohydrate (creatine monohydrate) is involved, along with protein, in building muscle, gets rid of excess fat deposits (which is especially important for a beautiful relief) and removes lactate from muscle tissues;
L-carnitine L-tartrate (carnitine tartrate) – a favorite supplement for women, actively involved in the ruthless burning of excess fat, turning it into energy for training.