Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. When an amino acid forms into something that can be absorbed into the body, it is called protein synthesis. There are twenty standard amino acids. Other amino acids that are found in proteins are formed through a different process. Modifications to an amino acid are essential in the body for forming and regulating the protein supply. These modifications can also help with the localization of a protein or protein elements.

There are many different types of non-protein amino acids as well. These are found in nature with plants and animals alike. These amino acids are fairly uncommon and are only formed in these methods. Many different chemicals can be found in plants and then again many more in animals. The functions, processes and effects essentially have the same function even if the make up is different.

Non-protein amino acids also play a crucial role in humans. They act as synthesizers and have several different functions such as being precursors for neurotransmission, porphyrins, nitric oxide, lipid transport, polyamines and S-adenosylmethionine.

Some amino acids have also been found on meteorites and thus bringing about the question of whether life exists outside of earth or in fact, the origins of humans indeed came from outer space.

Some of the amino acids found are called essential amino acids as the body cannot produce such acids and therefore an external source of amino acids must be found from plants or animals. Some amino acids are essential for children such as Histidine and arginine. Some people take amino acid supplements and it is important to regulate the intake as it can throw parts of the body off balance therefore causing health problems in various degrees of seriousness.

Nine amino acids are considered essential that include histdine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine. These acids have to be gotten from outside sources. Food that lack essential amino acids are not very good sources of protein and the body does what it can with the protein in the body and can transfer it into fats and carbohydrates. It is therefore very important to have a balanced supply of essential and non-essential amino acids.

All essential amino acids can be obtained from plants and therefore adhere to strict vegetarian diets as it is not necessary to consume animal protein to get the essential amino acids required. Supplements also exist for obtaining amino acids but these should be taken with care as to not upset the balance of protein in the body.

It is important to consult your doctor or physician before taking any kind of supplement. They can give you advice on what to take and how to take it. It is crucial to follow the recommended instructions and not to mix them with other chemicals or supplements that may have an adverse effect on the body. Not all supplements work and what may work for somebody may not work so well for someone else. You can also find out further information on nutritional health websites available on the Internet.