Single Amino Acids
Understanding Single Amino Acids: A Comprehensive Guide
Amino Acids are molecules that combine to form proteins. They are the building blocks of life. Roughly 500 amino acids have been identified in nature, but just 20 of them make up the proteins found in the human body. Eleven of these are made inside the body, while the remaining 9 must be supplied by food and, as needed, through supplementation. Read more >-
Designs For Health's 5-HTP Supreme has been specifically developed to support a balanced mood, alleviate symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia, and diminish both the intensity and duration of migraine headaches when used as a preventive measure. This formulation combines 5-hydroxytryptophan with vitamin B6 to enhance overall neurotransmitter metabolism by supplying essential precursors for sero...
+ Earn 71 Reward PointsOur Price: $71.88In Stock -
Designs For Health's 5-HTP Synergy has been specifically developed to support a balanced mood, alleviate symptoms associated with Fibromyalgia, and diminish both the intensity and duration of migraine headaches when used as a preventive measure. This formulation combines 5-hydroxytryptophan with vitamin B6 to enhance overall neurotransmitter metabolism by supplying essential precursors for sero...
+ Earn 54 Reward PointsOur Price: $54.63In Stock -
Designs for Health’s Acetyl L-Carnitine offers 800mg of acetyl L-carnitine (ALC) per capsule to boost energy production, support brain function, maintain mood balance, and promote nerve health. Some individuals may not produce enough ALC due to aging or health conditions. As a supplement, ALC is well-absorbed and plays a crucial role in brain chemistry, aiding in the synthesis of acetylcholine,...
+ Earn 71 Reward PointsOur Price: $71.30In Stock -
Designs For Health's Carnitine Synergy contains 400mg of L-Carnitine and 100mg of Acetyl-L-Carnitine. Carnitine is essential for the metabolism of fats into energy; without it, the body struggles to utilize fat stores effectively. Insufficient energy can lead to weakened cells and potential damage. Enhancing carnitine levels has shown significant advantages in addressing issues related to low e...
+ Earn 114 Reward PointsOur Price: $114.14In Stock -
Designs for Health’s Creatine Monohydrate Powder delivers 5g of micronized creatine per serving to support muscle strength, performance, and growth. As one of the most extensively researched and trusted supplements, creatine is known for its safety and effectiveness in both men and women. Beyond enhancing athletic performance, it also supports cognitive function, bone strength, healthy aging, a...
+ Earn 57 Reward PointsOur Price: $57.50In Stock -
Designs For Health's L-Glutamine is a vital amino acid that supports the immune system and the digestive tract. It plays a crucial role in enhancing the health and functionality of mucosal cells in the gut, facilitating healing and repair processes. Additionally, L-Glutamine contributes to the preservation of muscle tissue, serving as a substrate for protein synthesis and acting as an anabolic ...
+ Earn 76 Reward PointsOur Price: $76.48In Stock -
Designs for Health’s Liposomal Glutathione is an advanced supplement that uses liposomal technology for improved absorption. Each 1 mL serving (about two pumps) provides 100 mg of glutathione in a lemon-peppermint flavor. This potent antioxidant protects the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals and is vital for liver health, often dubbed an "anti-ager." [LIQUID]
+ Earn 91 Reward PointsOur Price: $91.72In Stock -
Designs for Health offers 3 mg melatonin capsules to improve sleep quality, especially for those who have trouble staying asleep. Melatonin, a hormone from the pineal gland, helps regulate sleep and circadian rhythms, making it useful for jet lag. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant. Factors like low tryptophan intake, low serotonin, aging, limited natural light, and certain medications can ...
+ Earn 30 Reward PointsOur Price: $30.48In Stock -
Designs For Health offers N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) in a formulation that provides 900mg of this extensively studied amino acid. NAC serves as a precursor to glutathione, which is recognized as the body's most potent antioxidant, thereby supporting effective detoxification processes. Extensive studies have highlighted NAC's significance in enhancing lung health and facilitating swift recovery fol...
+ Earn 69 Reward PointsOur Price: $69.58In Stock -
Designs For Health's Taurine is an amino acid that serves various important functions in supporting overall health. It is crucial for cardiovascular health, lipid metabolism, immune system performance, and the preservation of visual clarity. Taurine can be found in dietary sources such as meat and seafood, with shellfish like mussels, clams, and oysters being particularly rich in this nutrient....
+ Earn 46 Reward PointsOur Price: $46.87In Stock -
Designs For Sport Creatine Monohydrate is a highly researched and effective supplement for enhancing exercise performance and supporting lean muscle mass. The body requires creatine daily for optimal muscle contraction, with increased needs during periods of growth and training. Each scoop delivers 5 g of micronized creatine in a convenient unflavored, unsweetened powder that dissolves easily i...
+ Earn 63 Reward PointsOur Price: $63.25In Stock -
GABA 700 by Genestra supports brain and cognitive health by promoting feelings of relaxation and calmness during times of stress. This formula is dairy and gluten-free and suitable for vegans. Made into a convenient vegetable capsule formula, GABA 700 offers 700mg of GABA per daily dose. Genestra is committed to quality by testing their supplements three times to meet Canadian, European an...
+ Earn 29 Reward PointsOur Price: $29.00In Stock -
NOW 5-HTP 100mg Chewable can be used with a program of reduced intake of dietary calories and increased physical activity to help in weight management by reducing carbohydrate cravings. Through its effects on mood and cravings for food via seratonin, 5-HTP can help manage weight. This low-glycemic chewable form is safe for those controlling blood sugar. 5-HTP, the intermediate metabolite betwee...
+ Earn 27 Reward PointsSale: $27.49
Reg.: $39.63 (Save $12.14)
In Stock -
200MG OF 5-HTP WITH ADDED TYROSINE AND B VITAMINS. Working synergistically 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) and Tyrosine help your body to combat stress, anxiety and elevate moods. Enhanced with vitamin B-6 and B-3 for maximum absorption and utilization. Available in V-Caps, this therapeutic dosage is recommended by natural doctors for mild to moderate depression and in clinical trials has shown p...
+ Earn 31 Reward PointsSale: $31.99
Reg.: $49.99 (Save $18.00)
In Stock -
Acetyl L-Carnitine from NOW can help to support healthy brain and cognitive function in older adults. L-Carnitine is a non-essential amino acid that helps to maintain overall good health by facilitating the transfer of fatty acid groups into the mitochondrial membrane for cellular energy production. It naturally occurs in red meat and other animal source foods, but we recommend supplementation ...
+ Earn 28 Reward PointsSale: $28.99
Reg.: $41.49 (Save $12.50)
In Stock -
DMG FROM NOW FOODS CONTAINING A 125 MG MODERATE POTENCY. DMG (N, N-Dimethyl Glycine) is derived from the amino acid Glycine and has been shown to have a number of beneficial effects including increased energy and mental perception. DMG has also been noted for its immune boosting benefits and its ability to help regulate blood pressure and lower cholesterol. Many health professionals recommend...
+ Earn 14 Reward PointsOur Price: $14.99In Stock -
NOW® GABA Chewables are naturally orange flavoured and sweetened with xylitol to help support temporarily relaxation. GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) is a non-protein amino acid that functions as a neurotransmitter in the human brain. GABA is known as the brain’s own calming agent and is naturally produced in the body. By supporting a naturally balanced level of brain stimulation, GABA’s presenc...
+ Earn 24 Reward PointsSale: $24.99
Reg.: $36.41 (Save $11.42)
In Stock -
NOW provides only the naturally occurring L-form of GABA as found in food, as well as in the body. NOW’s GABA Extra Strength 750mg is one of the strongest dosages on the market. GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) is a non-protein amino acid that functions as a neurotransmitter in the human brain. GABA is known as the brain’s own calming agent and is naturally produced in the body. By supporting a n...
+ Earn 23 Reward PointsSale: $23.49
Reg.: $33.65 (Save $10.16)
In Stock -
This Extra Strength Glutathione from NOW contains 500mg of L-Glutathione plus is enhanced with Milk Thistle Extract and Alpha Lipoic Acid. Glutathione is a tripeptide amino acid produced in the liver primarily from cysteine. It acts as a cellular antioxidant by inhibiting free radical formation. Glutathione has been called the master antioxidant, because it recycles the antioxidants vitamins C ...
+ Earn 68 Reward PointsSale: $68.99
Reg.: $99.73 (Save $30.74)
In Stock -
workout supplement for athletic support, NOW Glycine 1000mg is a precursor of creatine. Glycine is a non-essential amino acid and has the simplest structure of all amino acids, allowing it to fit easily within protein chains and make space for structurally larger amino acids. This feature makes it very important for specific bodily functions. Glycine is also a precursor of creatine, which is us...
+ Earn 18 Reward PointsSale: $18.99
Reg.: $26.97 (Save $7.98)
In Stock
Essential Single Amino Acids: A Detailed Chart
Amino acids are molecules that combine to form proteins. They are the building blocks of life. Roughly 500 Amino acids have been identified in nature, but just 20 of them make up the proteins found in the human body. Eleven of these are made inside the body, while the remaining 9 must be supplied by food and, as needed, through supplementation. Let's explore the chart of necessary amino acids for good health.
A chart of essential amino acids include: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine, all of which are naturally abundant in foods such as beef, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, soy, quinoa, and buckwheat. Other foods such as nuts, seeds, beans, and certain grains contain some but not all the essential amino acids. Thus, they are “incomplete proteins" and should be combined to supply all 9 essential amino acids.
When your diet is lacking, or if you're looking to stimulate physical performance, boost energy, stimulate muscle protein synthesis, support immunity, enhance digestion, and promote overall excellent health, nothing beats a good amino acid supplement. Besides forming proteins, amino acids are needed to produce enzymes, hormones, and neurotransmitters. They are also involved in numerous metabolic pathways within cells throughout the body.
Key Benefits of Single Amino Acids for Wellness
- Boost Muscle Building & Prevent Muscle Breakdown
- Enhance Physical Performance
- Help Balance Glycemia
- Promote Neurotransmitter and Hormone Synthesis
- Stimulate Energy Production
Determining the Need: Who Benefits from Single Amino Acids?
Amino acids may be recommended as a complex, which has the advantage of not throwing off your amino acid balance. Still, individual amino acids may also be recommended depending on a person's health status and goals and may be ideal for specific health challenges. Here's a chart of amino acids and which health concerns they support:
- Glutamine may be recommended for: GI issues such as IBS, Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and gastritis, as well as to prevent muscle breakdown and improve immune system function
- Tryptophan may be recommended to help regulate the sleep-wake cycle, appetite, sleep, mood, and pain.
- Carnitine may be used to aid weight loss, improve exercise performance, and enhance a sense of well-being
There is a wide range of single amino acid supplements available on the market, each offering its own unique health benefits. For guidance on which amino acid(s) may be advantageous for you, speak to the knowledgeable staff at your favourite health food store or online retailer.
Varieties of Single Amino Acids: Potency & Formats Explored
Single amino acid supplements are widely available in capsules and powders and in fun gummy form for those suffering from pill fatigue. Amino acids are also frequently added to protein powders to enhance performance, boost muscle building, and speed post-exercise recovery. Each amino acid is offered in its own optimal dosing range. Always refer to the label instructions on your product to determine which dose is best for you.
Insights & Considerations: Making the Most of Single Amino Acids
Most amino acid supplements, whether in combination or isolated form, are well tolerated and cause few side effects. However, if your dose is too high, you may experience certain side effects such as:
- Gastrointestinal distress, including bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in eating patterns
- Diarrhea
- Drop in blood pressure
Amino acid supplements should ideally be taken on an empty stomach between meals to get the most bang for your buck. However, when it comes to sports nutrition, athletes and strength trainers can take their amino acid supplement either before, during, after training, or any other time throughout the day when a meal or a shake isn’t possible or preferred.
Back to Top ↑
