Essential (Indispensable) Amino Acids

Essential amino acids, also known as indispensable amino acids, are those amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the human body in sufficient amounts. Therefore, they must be obtained from dietary sources such as milk, eggs, meat, legumes, nuts, and cereals.

These amino acids are crucial for normal growth, development, tissue repair, muscle formation, and overall health. A deficiency of any essential amino acid can lead to poor growth, weakness, impaired immunity, and metabolic disorders.

                AMINO ACIDS

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        |                                          |

   Essential                         Nonessential

 (From diet)                   (Body makes itself)

        |

  -------------------------------------------

  Arg  Val  His  Ile  Leu  Lys  Met  Phe  Thr  Trp

List of Essential Amino Acids in Humans (10):

·         Arginine

·         Valine

·         Histidine

·         Isoleucine

·         Leucine

·         Lysine

·         Methionine

·         Phenylalanine

·         Threonine

·         Tryptophan

Why are they important?

Essential amino acids play key roles in:
✔ Protein synthesis and muscle growth
✔ Tissue repair and wound healing
✔ Hormone and enzyme production
✔ Brain function and neurotransmission
✔ Immune system support

Easy Memory Trick (for exams)

“AVHILL MPT”
(Arginine–Valine–Histidine–Isoleucine–Leucine–Lysine–Methionine–Phenylalanine–Threonine–Tryptophan)