6 Reasons for a Runner to Take Amino Acids

There are many positives to taking amino acids. Some of these include improving endurance and experiencing less muscle fatigue.

However, there are some risks to weigh as well.

If you’re considering taking amino acids, read on to understand better how this works and the benefits for your athletic performance.

What Do Amino Acid Supplements Do For You?

1. Improved Recovery: As you are working your way through hard workouts, recovery time will be shortened through the use of amino acids. 
2. Reduced Soreness: Do you find yourself sore and uncomfortable post-workout? Amino acid supplements can help to alleviate soreness. 
3. Decreased Fatigue: One positive that goes along with improved recovery is that you will feel less tired. Amino acids can help decrease fatigue.
4. Improved Muscle Growth: Amino acids can help you grow physically.
5. Increased Endurance: Another thing that can occur from consistently taking amino acids is your endurance can also improve. What runners do not want that?
6. Better Mental Focus: Lastly, amino acids can help you to keep your edge through focus. Razor-sharp focus can help keep you on target. 

What Are The Effects of Amino Acids?

Compounds that combine to form proteins, amino acids are beneficial to your body. Naturally found in many foods, these supplements form the “building blocks for life.” 

When you eat proteins, your body processes the food, and amino acids are left behind. The amino acids break down food, help to repair tissue, and provide energy to your body. 

Can Amino Acid Supplements Be Harmful?

Excessive consumption of amino acids can be harmful. It makes sense since you can have too much of even a good thing.

Taking too many amino acid supplements can result in amino acid toxicity. 

What Are the Side Effects?

The most common are gastrointestinal problems. This can include nausea, diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain. 

Other common side effects noted by people who take amino acids long-term and on a consistent basis are headaches and an impact on blood sugar. Another problem many people experience is gout. 

If you take certain medications, it can be dangerous for you to mix them with amino acids.

If you take medication for diabetes or thyroid issues, speak to your physician prior to taking an amino acid supplement. 

When Should I Take Amino Acids: Before Or After Workout?

It is best to take your amino acids before your workout. Roughly 15-30 minutes prior to the workout is the preferred time. 

One of the primary benefits of taking the amino acids before the workout is they can help with DOMS. That is delayed onset muscle soreness. 

Is It Bad To Take Amino Acids Every Day?

It is not bad to take amino acids every day. This is assuming you are smart enough not to overdo it.

Take your amino acids following the directions on the bottle to be sure you are not going to take in too much.

Are Amino Acids Really Necessary?

Amino acids are essential for your body to grow and function properly. There are 20 amino acids that your body needs; however, there are only 9 of those that are considered essential.

Essential amino acids include:

1. histidine
2. isoleucine
3. leucine
4. lysine
5. methionine
6. phenylalanine
7. threonine
8. tryptophan
9. valine

Essential amino acids cannot be made by your body and have to be obtained through diet. Nonessential amino acids can be made by your body.

The best food sources for essential amino acids are things like meat and eggs. In other words, animal proteins provide you these important things that your body needs. 

Although most athletes think of amino acids only in regards to muscle repair and development, your body does use them for other things.

A deficit of essential amino acids can negatively impact your body in many ways, including the nervous, immune, digestive, and reproductive systems.

What Are Complete Proteins?

Any food source that contains all nine of the essential amino acids is referred to as a complete protein. Sources of complete proteins are:

1. Meat
2. Poultry
3. Seafood
4. Eggs
5. Dairy Products

There are also some plant-based foods that contain all nine of the essential amino acids. Some examples of those are quinoa and soy. 

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Incomplete protein sources like beans, nuts, seeds, and some vegetables also add up to help you meet your daily required allocation of amino acids.

This is to say that many people get all the amino acids they need through food sources, without ever taking a supplement.

Amino Acids For Runners

If you do not feel you take in an adequate amount of amino acids to fit your needs, there are many supplements that would work excellent for a runner. The 10 Best Amino Acid Supplement list is an excellent place to start your search for one that will be perfect for you!

Runners use amino acids for the same reasons as other athletes. The most frequently cited reasons for taking amino acids are faster recovery and less muscle soreness after workouts. 

Another perk to taking the supplement is that it can help hold off the feeling of fatigue. Who doesn’t want something that can help them to power through longer, harder workouts without feeling exhausted as fast?