Amino acids are involved in almost all metabolic processes. As the building blocks of muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, and hair, they play a key role in our physical well-being. They also play a key role in our immune system, enzymes, and hormones. A balanced metabolism is also the foundation for well-being and a good mood. In the brain, amino acids are converted into mood-enhancing neurotransmitters. Athletes utilize the various functions of individual amino acids to enhance performance, achieve muscle growth, or improve their general fitness. During the colder seasons, they can also boost our mood.

The Energy Booster – Creatine

Creatine is an acid consisting of three amino acids that the body produces itself. However, residual products are excreted from the body, meaning the body doesn't store any "reserves." The body therefore doesn't automatically have quick access to "more" creatine when it needs it, so it can be helpful to support the body with creatine during extra exercise.

Creatine is found primarily in muscle cells. Produced in the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, it is converted into, among other things, adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Adenosine triphosphate is the body's main source of energy. It has the property of attracting water into muscle cells and effectively increasing their volume, which can combat protein breakdown and stimulate protein synthesis.

The little all-rounders – BCAA amino acids

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BCAAs are branched-chain amino acids, small building blocks that act as a building substance for our body and must be ingested through food.

But why are they called all-rounders? These building blocks perform various functions in the body. These include stimulating protein synthesis (in the muscles) and influencing glucose and fat metabolism.

The more BCAAs the body receives (especially during intense training), the less energy it draws from existing muscle mass, which can lead to muscle loss. BCAAs can also be helpful in the currently highly discussed intermittent fasting practice, because unlike regular protein shakes, they can be taken before, after, and during training and can prevent muscle loss during the fasting phase.

The performance facilitator – Beta Alanine

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Beta alanine is a non-essential amino acid that, unlike most amino acids, is not used by the body for protein synthesis. Nevertheless, beta alanine plays an important role:

In our muscles, histidine levels are often high and beta alanine levels comparatively low. This prevents the increased production of carnosine, an important substance that reduces the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles during exercise. This, in turn, can lead to improved athletic performance.

The effects of taking beta alanine can sometimes be felt immediately, as one interesting side effect is a slight tingling sensation on the skin. This is harmless and completely normal, and indicates that the beta alanine is working.

Final spurt – L-Arginine

Arginine, also called L-arginine, is a semi-essential amino acid that our bodies largely produce themselves. However, under certain circumstances, the body's need may exceed its own production.

The substance is involved in many crucial processes in the body. Among other things, arginine is said to dilate blood vessels and promote blood flow. The nitrogen contained in arginine can react with oxygen to form nitric oxide, thus leading to the dilation of blood vessels, which in turn supports blood flow to all parts of the body.

It is also said to influence our hormone balance, especially growth hormones. Growth hormones also promote muscle growth and fat loss, which is why arginine is often used by athletes, for example, in bodybuilding.