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Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, and are
essential for the synthesis of specialized cells, neurotransmitters, enzymes, hormones, and DNA. There
are 23 different amino acids, 22 of which are required for proper growth and repair.
Many aminos contribute to structural cells such as the replacement components in
the blood, including those responsible for the immunity response. Other blood proteins are necessary for
the transportation of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Amino acids are responsible for the production
of enzymes used in the digestion and other metabolic processes, including the release of energy in the form of ATP stored
in the muscle cells. Amino acids also aid in thought, focus, and clarity. They may also
assist in the reduction of anxiety, fear, and frustration. Of the 23 aminos acids, one is manufactured in the laboratory, thirteen are created in
the body, and the remaining nine, called “essential amino acids,” must be acquired through the diet.
The names of the nine essential aminos are as follows: L-Histidine, L-Isoleucine, L-Leucine, L-Lysine, L-Methionine, L-Phenylalanine,
L-Threonine, L-Tryptophan, and L-Valine. The thirteen nonessential amino acids are L-Alanine, L-Arginine, L-Asparagine,
L-Carnitine, L-Cystine, L-Glutamate, L-Glutamine, L-Glycine,
OH Proline, L-Proline, L-Sarcosine, L-Serine, and L-Tyrosine.
L-Alanine is a non-essential which the body can make from pyruvate. Alanine is one of the most important
amino acids released by muscle, and strengthens cellular walls. It also functions as a major energy source. Excessive alanine
may be broken down into glucose to provide the body with an alternative energy source. Alanine is used as also an inhibitory
or calming neurotransmitter in the brain. L-Arginine, is considered to be a semi-essential amino acid. Although being produced by the body, it may be found
lacking and supplementation could be necessary. Individuals with an excessive amount of ammonia production, due to malnutrition,
rapid growth or protein deficiency, may be in need of a supplement. Symptoms of arginine deficiency include constipation,
poor wound healing, hair loss, and skin rash.
If the digestive process does not produce the required amino acids, the
liver will not produce the proper enzymes for the digestive process. Incomplete digestion will cause putrification which leads
to toxic overload. The detoxification process requires an abundance of amino acids one of which is arginine. In times of stress
or illness, the requirement for this amino acid is much higher. Arginine is especially important for male sexual health because
it composes eighty percent of the seminal fluid. L-Aspartate aka L-Asparagine aka Aspartic acid L-Aspartate
is non-essential in mammals, being produced from oxaloacetate by transamination. It can also be made in the Urea Cycle from Ornithine and Citrulline. In plants and microorganisms, aspartate is the precursor to several amino acids, including four that are essential for humans: methionine, threonine, isoleucine, and lysine . The conversion of aspartate to these other amino acids begins with
reduction of aspartate to its "semialdehyde," O2CCH(NH2)CH2CHO.
L-Asparagine is derived from aspartate via transamidation: A reaction between asparagine and reducing
sugars or reactive carbonyls produces acrylamide (acrylic amide) in food when heated to sufficient temperature. Asparagine was the first amino acid to be isolated. In 1806, two French chemists Louis Nicolas
Vauquelin and Pierre Jean Robiquet isolated asparagine in a crystalline form from asparagus juice, in which it is abundant, hence
the name they chose for that new matter. The characteristic smell observed in the urine of individuals after their consumption
of asparagus is attributed to various metabolic byproducts of asparagine. Aspargine aids transformation of carbohydrates into
cellular energy. Aspargine
promotes metabolism, strengthens the immune system and removes excess toxins from cells.
In addition it also aids to transport minerals into the cells for the production
of RNA and DNA. Aspargine keeps the mind sharp by increasing concentrations
of NADH in the brain, which boosts the production of neurotransmitters
and chemicals needed for normal mental functioning. Aspartate moves the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)
molecules from the main body of the cell to its mitochondria, where it is used as fuel
to power all cellular activity. According to the hepatic studies of as well as that of muscular, it is known for the
crucial role it plays in generating cellular energy. Aspartate, with the crucial role it plays in generating cellular energy, moves the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) molecules
from the main body of the cell to its mitochondria, where it is used as fuel to
power all cellular activity. Studies also show that aspartate actually increases
stamina and endurance levels in athletes. Aspartate is used to treat chronic fatigue and cerebral metabolism of ammonia and glutamine, the use of L-ornithine and L-aspartate ( LOLA ) increases the ability of the liver and other
organs to detoxify ammonia.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/587349
L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring nonessential amino acid which plays a vital role in
the metabolism of fat. It functions as a transporter of fatty acids into the mitochondria, the metabolic furnace of the cell.
It is synthesized, from lysine and methionine in the liver and kidneys. This synthesis requires
the presence of iron with two vitamins, B6
and B3, pyridoxine and niacin respectively. Ninety-eight percent of the
carnitine supply resides in the body's muscle tissue. Carnitine is
a nonessential amino acid and is endogenously synthesized. The essential amino acids methionine and lysine must
be exogenously supplemented. Approximately eighty
percent of the amino acids our bodies need are endogenously synthesized; the remaining twenty percent are referred to as the
essential amino acids. Carnitine was discovered in Russia, and one year later in Germany.
The proper name, Carnitine, refers to its Latin origin, carne. Its structural formula was decoded in 1927, and its physiological
significance was understood by the 1960's and is thought to help maintain and strengthen heart muscles.
Carnitine
is available in the following food sources: red meat, diary products, avocado, and tempeh. Although a well balanced
diet can provide approximately 75% of what the body is lacking, often conditions arise that make it difficult to obtain all
the Carnitine one needs. "not present in maca but synthesized in the liver from lysine and methionine " L-Cystine is considered a substance that is generally recognized as safe by the Food and
Drug Administration. It helps strengthen the immune system, reduce damage from free-radicals, repair RNA-DNA in the cells
and assimilation of vitamin B6. Cystine is closely related to Cysteine. Cystine aids in preventing the side effects
of chemotherapy and radiation. It increases L-Glutathione levels in the lungs, liver, kidneys, and bone marrow. Cystine
also has an anti-aging effect on the body which can reduce the accumulation of age spots. Cystine aids pancreatic health,
which stabilizes blood sugar and carbohydrate metabolism. Has been used to alleviate some symptoms of food allergy and intolerance.
Cystine is a common dough conditioner, flavor enhancer in foods, and a precursor in some dietary supplements. It is most often
derived from human hair or duck feathers, and to a lesser extent from pigs' bristles and hooves. Cystine is also commonly
made synthetically using industrial chemicals that undergo a biochemical transformation brought about by non-animal enzymes.
Since both forms are expensive, they are not commonly used, making cystine a rare
amino, but it is naturally present in blue green algae.
While researching Cystine, we found that the Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG) asked several fast food chains and a
major vegetarian food company about the sources of Cystine in their products. McDonald's told them that Cystine
derived from duck feathers is in their Honey Wheat Roll, the Deluxe Warm Cinnamon Roll, and the Baked Apple Pie. The
Cystine in several items offered at Dunkin' Donuts is also derived from duck feathers. On the other hand, Subway recently
announced in March 2007 that it has removed the Cystine from its otherwise animal product-free Carb Conscious Wrap.
When asked about the source of Cystine in several of its products, Domino's Pizza told them that Cystine is microbially
derived in its Hand-Tossed Crust and that the Cystine in Domino's Breadsticks, Cheesy Bread, and Cinna Stix is vegetable-derived.
The public relations firm for Morningstar Farms told them that the Cystine in their Veggie Bites Country Scramble, Veggie
Bites Spinach Artichoke, and Veggie Bites Eggs Florentine was a microbial fermentation product. Cystine aids pancreatic health, which stabilizes blood
sugar and carbohydrate metabolism. It has been used to alleviate some symptoms of food allergy and intolerance.
" not present in maca but can
be obtained in spiralina "
http://www.naturalways.com/spirulina-analysis.htm www.vrg.org L-Glutamate
aka glutamic acid is a dibasic nonessential amino acid occurring in proteins. It is also an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Glutamic acid with glucose, one of the principal
fuels for the brain cells, has been used to reduce the craving for alcohol and stabilize mental health. Its hydrochloride salt is used as a gastric acidifier.
The monosodium salt, sodium glutamate, msg is used in treating encephalopathies
associated with hepatic disease." not present in maca but can be obtained
in spiralina "
L-Glutamine
is the most abundant amino acid in the body, comprising more than 60% of the free amino acid pool in skeletal muscle and greater
than 20% of total circulating amino acids. Supplemental L-Glutamine may help reduce muscle soreness and rebuild muscle tissue. L-Glycine is an amino acid used by the body to build proteins. Glycine
promotes health of the thymus gland, spleen, and bone marrow and balance white cell production. Glycine slows own muscle degeneration
by supplying additional creatine, which is a compound that is present in muscle tissue. It is utilized in the construction
of DNA and RHA. Glycine is essential for the synthesis of nucleic acids, bile acids and other nonessential amino acids
in the body. It has been used in the treatment of manic depression and schizophrenia. Glycine promotes oxygen use in the cells
as well as energy and is effective in the treatment of hyperactivity.
www.schizophrenia.com/glycinetreat.htm L-Histidine* is an essential amino acid that is
significant in the growth and repair of tissues. It is important for the maintenance of the myelin sheaths
which protect the nerve cells. It is also needed for the production of both red and white blood cells. Histidine strengthens
nerve relays, especially in the auditory organs, and has been used to reverse some cases of deafness. Histidine also
protects the body from radiation damage, helps to lower blood pressure, and aids in removing heavy metals from the system.
Histamine, an important immune system chemical, is derived from histidine. L-Isoleucine*
for bodybuilding and fitness.
www.trulyhuge.com/l-isoleucine-benefits.html L-Leucine* powerfully stimulates muscle protein synthesis, some researchers have suggested leucine
supplementation may be used to combat age-associated memory loss. www.trueprotein.com L-Lysine* is a natural supplement that, if taken at a high enough dose, works to restrict
the herpes virus without posing any serious health risks or side effects. Lysine, a natural amino acid that is reported to fight
the Herpes virus.
www.herpes-coldsores.com/amino-acid-lysine-for-herpes.html L-Methionine*
is beneficial in muscle building, health and fitness.
Methionine is an essential amino acid. It is an antioxidant nutrient
and lipotropic agent which promotes the physiological utilization of fat.
www.greatvistachemicals.com/amino.../L-methionine.html
www.trulyhuge.com/l-methionine-benefits.html L-Phenylalanine* is an essential amino acid used to elevate mood, energy and attitude.
Warning: Persons born with the genetic condition phenylketonuria (PKU)are unable to metabolize
the amino acid phenylalanine, and mental retardation and other severe disabilities can result. Phenylalanine should not be used by pregnant women or by those who suffer anxiety attacks or
those who have high blood pressure or with pre-existing pigmented melanoma (form of cancer). The amino acid DL-phenylalanine may be used with caution if you are pregnant or diabetic,
or if you have high blood pressure or suffer anxiety attacks. While dietary phenylalanine restriction may prevent
these problems, it also may lead to a low tyrosine level in people with PKU. Tyrosine supplementation may be beneficial in
some people with PKU, however the evidence may be conflicting. "
there is no L-Phenylalanine in maca but it is contained in "
wayup.com www.janethull.com/newsletter/.../warning_phenylketonurics.php L-Proline, an essential amino acid, is a precursor
of glutamic acid, and along with vitamin C, it is a precursor of collagen. Collagen is a building block of tendons and ligaments,
and is extremely important for the proper functioning of joints. Helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles.
www.ezinearticles.com OH Proline, also called Hydroxyproline, differs from proline by the presence of a hydroxyl (OH) group attached to the gamma carbon atom.
L-Sarcosine, also known as N-methylglycine has been used as adjunctive therapy for depression and schizophrenia.
L-Serine helps to form
the protective fatty sheaths surrounding nerve fiber and aids patients that suffer from neurological symptoms .
Research shows that it is usful in the treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome CFIDS that may be caused by an amino acid deficiency.
www.prohealth.com/library/showarticle.cfm?libid=428
L-Taurine is an amino sulfonic acid present in high amounts in meat and fish. The most abundant dietary source of Taurine
is human breast milk. Large amounts of Taurine are also found in the human brain, retina, heart and platelets. Taurine is
normally synthesized in the human body in adequate amounts from cysteine and hypotaurine. Supplementation is necessary in
non-breastfed infants because their ability to synthesize Taurine is undeveloped and cow's milk does not provide a sufficient
amount. Taurine is often added to human infant formulas, enteral products and some parenteral nutritional solutions. Excess
Taurine is excreted by the kidneys.
Taurine is involved in retinal photoreceptor activity, bile acid conjugation, white
blood cell antioxidant activity, central nervous system neuromodulation, platelet aggregation, cardiac contractility, sperm
motility, growth, insulin activity and osmoregulation. Taurine alters intracellular calcium movement, increasing left ventricular
function without any adverse changes in arterial pressure in patients with congestive heart failure. Taurine might also decrease
the odds of heart failure because it seems to lower blood pressure and might normalize excessive sympathetic nervous
system activity that often occurs in people with hypertension which may lead to congestive heart failure. Preliminary
studies also suggest Taurine might have natriuretic and diuretic activity. Taurine might also have a cholesterol-lowering
effect. There is some evidence that Taurine might also have antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity. Platelets normally
have high levels of Taurine and can become more prone to aggregation during Taurine depletion. Taurine is an amino acid-like
compound and a component of bile acids, which are used to help absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Taurine also helps regulate
the heart beat, maintain cell membrane stability and prevent brain cell over-activity. Taurine is used in the treatment of
congestive heart failure (CHF), high blood pressure, hepatitis, high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) and cystic fibrosis.
Other uses include seizure disorders (epilepsy), autism, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), retinal degeneration,
diabetes and alcoholism. It is also used to improve mental performance and as an antioxidant.
http://www.xtend-life.com/popup/ingredients/L-Taurine.aspx
L-Threonine* is an essential amino acid that helps to maintain the proper protein balance
in the body. It is important for the formation of collagen,
www.greatvistachemicals.com/amino_acids/L-threonine.html L-Tryptophan* may be your choice for treatment of depression. Tryptophan is safe and legal and can be purchased
without prescription, and has been recomended as treatment for mental health.
Warning: People born with the
genetic condition phenylketonuria (PKU) are unable to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine. Mental retardation and other
severe disabilities can result. While dietary phenylalanine restriction prevents these problems, it also leads to low tyrosine
levels in people with PKU. Tyrosine supplementation may be beneficial in some people with PKU, though the evidence is conflicting.
" L-Trytophan is not present maca but it is contained in spiralina
" L-Tyrosine
is important to the structure of almost every protein in the body; it is a nonessential amino acid that the body synthesizes
from phenylalanine.
Tyrosine is converted by skin cells into melanin, the dark pigment that protects against the harmful
effects of ultraviolet light. It is also the precursor of several neurotransmitters, including dopamine, L-dopa, norepinephrine,
and epinephrine. Tyrosine, through its effect on neurotransmitters, may affect several health conditions, including Parkinson’s
disease, depression, and other mood disorders. Preliminary findings indicate a beneficial effect of tyrosine, along with other
amino acids, in people affected by dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Thyroid hormones have a role in almost every
bodily process and contain tyrosine as part of their structure. Due to its role as a precursor to norepinephrine and epinephrine,
two of the main stress-related hormones, tyrosine may also ease the adverse effects of physiological, environmental, and psychologcal
stress. Tyrosine is involved in coloration of hair and is involved in skin protection from
sunburn. It slows aging of cells and suppresses hunger centers in the hypothalamus. Food sources may include meat, fish,
dairy, grains, legumes, and other foods containing protein. L-Valine*, along with leucine and isoleucine, is a branched-chain amino acid.
It is named after the plant valerian, the source of valium. Valine cannot be produced by the body and must be ingested through
foods or supplements. Amino acids are essential for everyday body functions, as well as for maintaining muscle and regulation
of the immune system. Valine is not processed by the liver, it is taken up by muscles. Valine may be useful to combat insomnia
and nervousness. It is also shown to improve disorders of the muscles, and is effective as an appetite suppressant. Valine
also greatly benefits the regulation of the immune system. Valine is also essential for muscle tissue repair and muscle metabolism,
and also increases exercise endurance. Perhaps the biggest benefits are experienced by athletes who perform long distance
sports and bodybuilding. Some foods sources include poultry, kidney beans, leafy vegetables, and dairy.
http://www.trulyhuge.com Maca, Lepidium Peruvianum, has improved the health of thousands and can
do the same for you. As you know, amino acids are essential and they
are a requiremed for optimum health. Maca will provide you with the proteins that you require to improve your better
health immediately
with no side effects. If you are seeking an increase in libido, or simply seeking a natural supplement to increase your energy and stamina, Maca
is for you. Maca
will give you the natural nutrition that you need to restore balance to the endocrine system as well as to provide a boost
to your immunity. You will also find an increase in clarity, focus, and a sense of well being. This herbal supplement has been food for millions of indigenous
persons for thousands of years. Maca is an adaptogen,
a true super food, and can balance your diet as well as your life. The chemical analysis of maca root has revealed an abundance of
protein containing a total of 18 amino acids, nine of which are essential. It also contains eight minerals and a full array
of vitamins. It is scientifically proven that Maca contains more amino acids than any other substance known on earth.
Its greatest contribution is the occurrence
of six sterols (natural steroiods). Maca also contains saponins and a few carbohydrates. The amino acids are listed below,
as well as information about saponins. Also included is a full explanation of the effects of an adaptogen and the roll they
play in providing you with optimum health. Maca contains all the amino acids listed below and the daily requirements
have been computed based on one gram of MACA. Triterpenoid saponins have been the focus of most studies
of adaptogen constituents. Saponins include ginsenoside from Panax ginseng, gypenosides from Gynostemma and eleutherosides from Eleutherococcus. The lipophilic
properties of ginsenosides, for instance, favor binding to intracellular steroid hormone receptors. Triterpenes also include
phytosterols and phytoecdysteroids, both of which are thought to have adaptogenic roles in mammals. Phytosterols have been
studied more in food science than phytotherapy but are known to have immune function. Phytoecdysteroids are in common use by athletes and
weight lifters for the anabolic effects they produce. Rhaponticum carthamoides is notable for these compounds. Oxylipins are fatty acids that have been oxidized
and display prostaglandin-like activity due to a shape similar to leukotrienes. Examples are the hydroxylated fatty acids
in licorice, Glycyrrhiza glabra.
In addition
to the above constituents, many adaptogens contain polysaccharides that have been reported to stimulate immune system components and have immune system enhancing
benefits. Polysaccharide rich plants have a long history of use in traditional practices such as Chinese medicine. In addition
to stimulating the immune system, they are used to increase vital energy and considered qi tonics.
Adaptogens that contain
polysaccharides include: American ginseng, Asian ginseng, astragalus, cordyceps, eleuthero, licorice, lycium, prince seng,
reishi, rhaponticum, and shatavari.
Maca is an
adaptogen which means that it is a superfood. Adaptogens maintain homeostasis, they assist in maintaining a balance
of the hormonal system and offer support to the immune system as well, as the following quote explains:
"(A)daptogens... are products
that help the body adapt through a broad range of physical and emotional stressors, and are considered safe for
long term use... (They)... have the effect of normalizing functions.
If a level is too high, it is lowered, or if it
is too low, it is raised...; (therefore) restoring the body’s natural state of homeostasis or harmonic balance (Dr.
Keneth Pelletier, Stanford University School of Medicine, 2000)."
Adaptogen: From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia | | |
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The word adaptogen is used by herbalists to
refer to a natural herb product that increases the body's resistance to stresses such as trauma, anxiety and bodily fatigue.
In the past they have been called rejuvenating herbs, qi tonics, rasayanas, or restoratives. All adaptogens contain antioxidants,
but antioxidants are not necessarily adaptogens and that is probably not their primary mode of action. Knowledge about adaptogens dates back thousands of years
to ancient India and China, but serious scientific study did not begin until the late 1940s. In 1947, Dr. Nikolai Lazarev
defined an adaptogen as an agent that allows the body to counter adverse physical, chemical, or biological stressors by raising
nonspecific resistance toward such stress, thus allowing the organism to “adapt” to the stressful circumstances.
In 1968, Israel I. Brekhman, PhD, and Dr. I. V. Dardymov formally gave adaptogens a functional definition, as follows:
An adaptogen is nontoxic to the recipient. An
adaptogen produces a nonspecific response in the body, an increase in the power of resistance against multiple stressors including
physical, chemical, or biological agents. It has a normalizing influence on physiology, irrespective of the direction of change
from physiological norms caused by the stressor. Very simply, adaptogens are nontoxic in normal doses, produce a nonspecific
defensive response to stress, and have a normalizing influence on the body. They normalize the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal
axis (HPA axis). As defined, adaptogens constitute a new class of natural, homeostatic metabolic regulators. It is claimed that adaptogenic herbs are unique from other
substances in their ability to balance endocrine hormones and the immune system, and they help the body to maintain optimal
homeostasis. Adaptogens have a normalizing effect on the body and are capable of either toning down the activity of hyperfunctioning
systems or strengthening the activity of hypofunctioning systems. However they are also functional at the level of allostasis
which is a more dynamic reaction to long term stress, lacking the fixed reference points of homeostasis. Adaptogenic Herbs Most herbal adaptogens that have been identified have long been used
in either Ayurveda or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Adaptogens with a significant level of scientific research confirming
their use include: Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis), Dang Shen (Codonopsis pilosula), Eleuthero
(Eleutherococcus senticosus), Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum), Ginseng (Panax ginseng), Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), Jiaogulan
(Gynostemma pentaphyllum), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Maca (Lepidium peruvianum), Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), Rhaponticum
(Rhaponticum carthamoides or Stemmacantha carthamoides), Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea), Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis), Chaga
mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) and Shilajit (Ashphaltum bitumen). Possible adaptogens with less scientific research include: Amla (Emblica officinalis),
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), He Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum), Lycium (Lycium chinensis), Prince Seng (Pseudostellaria
heterophylla), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus) and Suma (Pfaffia paniculata). Panax ginseng is an example of an adaptogen that has demonstrated an
"overall normalizing effect." Among the active ingredients found in Panax Ginseng are substances called ginsenosides.
The herb contains ginsenosides Rg1, which can stimulate the nervous system, and ginsenosides Rb1, which calms it. However
ginsenosides alone do not determine the active strength of ginseng and some preparations with higher ginsenosides have lower
activity, indicating that cofactors are necessary to potentiate the adaptogenic properties of ginseng. |
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Since the 1940's, the soil in North America
has been depleted of it's natural minerals by the use of artificial fertilizers, created from the surplus nitrogen formally
used in the manufacturing of bombs in WWII. This chemical nitrogen has been used to replace the natural occurring microbial
activity. These chemicals and the use of toxic pesticide sprays may be responsible for the increase in disease as well as the
lowering of the standard of health in the past 70 years. Maca is grown naturally in the Peruvian Andes without the use of toxic fertilizer or
pesticides. Maca also contains eighteen amino acids to provide your body with the protein required to launch you into better
health quickly with no side effects. If you are seeking an increase in stamina as well as in increase in metabolism,
or seeking a natural suplement to increase libido, Maca would be for you. Maca can give you the natural nutrition that you
require to restore balance to the endocrine system as well as to provide a greater boost in immunity, not to mention clarity
and focus.
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INCA GOLD LLC PO. Box 100 Badger, California 93603
For additional information,
Please e-mail us at healtherbs@aol.com or call our
office at 559.337.2222
 
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