Proteins, which are built from amino acids, are the second most abundant substance in the body after water. Amino acids serve as essential building blocks for proteins, which then perform a vast number of functions in your body.
Amino acid therapy is a type of specialized treatment. It is designed to help people with a clinical deficiency of important amino acids. There are also others who may benefit, such as those with poor absorption or specific metabolic needs. Let’s take a look at what amino acid infusions offer, how they work, and consider the potential risks.
Amino Acid Therapy via IV or Injectables
The use of amino acid therapy is becoming more popular in modern-day. Now, it’s important to realize that research is still ongoing about specific amino acid therapies. However, it has been confirmed that it may offer certain benefits to assist with athletic recovery, potentially improve sleep, and enhance mental focus.
There are different routes of administration. This includes taking supplements in the form of capsules. Intravenous administration does, however, offer certain benefits over the oral administration route. This is because it allows for greater bioavailability and provides your body with access to these amino acids faster.
Amino Acid Deficiencies
Athletic and physically active individuals can experience poor performance and low energy when their amino acid levels are significantly lower than what they should be. This can be critical, especially in older, active adults, because chronic insufficiencies in the body can cause loss of lean muscle mass, which may result in weakness and instability. This may contribute to injuries in the long run.
There are other potential symptoms that can also show up with clinical deficiencies of important amino acids. Some of these may include:
- Edema
- A weakened immune system
- Hair loss
- Fatigue
- Increased hunger
- Dry skin
Understanding Amino Acids and Their Uses
Amino Acid Infusions may vary by ingredients, but they all involve the use of hypocaloric solutions given using the peripheral veins. They may include amino acids such as L-Carnosine, L-Arginine. L-Glutamine and L-Lysine, along with vitamins B and C.
The amino acids can become a crucial element for people who consume very limited or no animal protein at all. It’s often considered a supportive or complementary therapy to support conditions such as:
There are also some cases where amino acid therapy becomes useful in addressing certain nutritional factors related to depression and anxiety.
The branched-chain amino acids(BCAAs) help with muscle soreness caused by lactic acid build-up in your muscles after intense exercise. When using the BCAA amino acids, you may notice you can work out longer. This is because they may help with your body’s lactic threshold.
BCAAs can also be useful in reducing muscle fatigue and increasing muscle growth.
Glutathione is frequently added to infusions because of its ability to reduce oxidative damage and oxidative stress. It’s often referred to as the Master Antioxidant in the body.
There are ongoing research surrounding the use of glutathione in the body. It may help to improve mobility in people with certain conditions. Some evidence also shows that glutathione plays a role in insulin resistance and fatty liver disease.
Amin Acid Therapy Risks and Side-Effects
It’s important to always consult a healthcare professional before starting amino acid therapy. While there are many benefits of amino acids, you also need to understand the potential side effects that can show up.
Some side effects that may develop include:
- Fluid retention
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Changes in blood pressure
The specific risks depend on the formulation and the specific amino acids used in the therapy.
How can Androgenix help?
If you’re noticing a weak immune system, slow wound healing, and a decrease in muscle mass, you may have concerns about whether a deficiency in amino acids could be behind these symptoms. At Androgenix, we specialize in personal care. Our medical team can help you get a better view of your amino acids and determine if amino acid supplements could help to improve the symptoms you experience.
Get in touch with our office for a personalized consultation.
