Amino acid is a chemical compounds produced by living organism. Many amino acids are the structural units of proteins.

Amino acids are as important for nutrition as vitamins and minerals, since they are the basic building blocks of proteins, an important constructive element, Amino acid are used by the body to make tissues, enzymes, hormones and other vital body substances.

Type of proteins produced depends on how and with what these amino acids are combined. Each muscle, nerve, and tissue is made up of a different combination of amino acids.

Other Function of Amino Acids :

1. Important for the normal growth of children.
2. Essential for maintenance and repair of tissues.

Recommended Daily Dosage :

• First 6 mos 243 gr. / kg Grams of protein per kg. of weight
• 6 mos to 1 year 158 gr. / kg.
• 1 to 6 years 110 gr. / kg.
• 6 to 14 years 99 gr. / kg.
• 15 to 18 years 88 gr. / kg. (men); 79 gr. / kg (women)
• Adults 79 gr. / kg.

Body requires 23 principal amino acids, of which 8 are essential and 15 non essential. The body (liver) synthesizes the 15 non-essential amino acids but the other 8 need to be obtained by the person through external sources.

Related Articles : Essential Amino Acids and Non-Essential Amino Acids