Supplements & Vitamins Guide
Dietary supplements can play an important role in supporting your health, but understanding what to take, how much, and potential risks is essential. Our evidence-based supplements guide provides detailed information about vitamins, minerals, and natural health products to help you make informed decisions with your healthcare provider.
Showing 9 supplements in Amino Acids
L-Glutamine
Glutamine, L-Glutamic Acid Amide
L-Glutamine is a conditionally essential amino acid that becomes essential during illness, stress, or intense exercise. It is the most abundant free amino acid in the body and serves as a primary fuel source for immune cells and the intestinal lining. Glutamine supports muscle health, gut barrier function, and immune response.
L-Arginine
Arginine, L-Arginine HCl
L-Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that serves as a precursor for nitric oxide production, which regulates blood flow and vascular function. It plays roles in immune function, wound healing, and hormone secretion. Arginine becomes essential during illness, stress, or intense training.
L-Theanine
Theanine, L-Theanine
L-Theanine is a non-essential amino acid found primarily in green tea that supports relaxation without inducing drowsiness. It works synergistically with caffeine to enhance focus and mental clarity. Theanine increases alpha brain wave activity associated with relaxed alertness.
L-Carnitine
Carnitine, L-Carnitine Tartrate
L-Carnitine is a conditionally essential amino acid that transports long-chain fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. It plays a critical role in fat metabolism and energy generation. Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) is a form that crosses the blood-brain barrier and supports cognitive function.
Taurine
2-Aminoethanesulfonic Acid, Taurine Amino Acid
Taurine is a conditionally essential amino acid that supports cardiovascular health, neurological function, and muscle performance. It is particularly abundant in the brain, heart, and muscle tissues. Taurine plays roles in cellular osmoregulation, antioxidant defense, and ion modulation.
Creatine
Creatine Monohydrate, Creatine Ethyl Ester
Creatine is a naturally occurring compound synthesized from amino acids that plays a critical role in energy production during high-intensity exercise. It is stored in muscles as phosphocreatine, which rapidly regenerates ATP (energy currency). Creatine is one of the most studied and effective sports supplements.
NAC / N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-Acetyl Cysteine, N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is a modified form of the amino acid cysteine that is a precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. It supports respiratory health, detoxification, and immune function. NAC is rapidly absorbed and effectively increases intracellular glutathione levels.
Glycine
Glycine amino acid, Aminoacetic acid
Glycine is the smallest and simplest amino acid, playing crucial roles in protein synthesis, collagen formation, and neurotransmitter function. It is a conditionally essential amino acid, meaning your body can produce it but may require supplementation during periods of high stress, intense exercise, or certain health conditions. Glycine is particularly important for joint health, sleep quality, and immune function.
5-HTP
5-Hydroxytryptophan, Oxitriptan
5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid and the direct precursor to serotonin, the neurotransmitter responsible for mood, sleep, and appetite regulation. It is extracted from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, an African plant. By increasing available 5-HTP, the body can produce more serotonin, potentially improving mood, sleep quality, and weight management without the side effects associated with SSRI medications.
Supplement Safety
Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA in the same way as prescription medications. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition. Supplements can interact with medications and may not be safe for everyone.