Amino acids for weight loss: which ones are better and how to take them

Expert: Andrey Gordeev

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Amino acid molecules that are not chemically bound to others are called free amino acids. Their main advantage is the absence of an energy-consuming splitting process. Once in the stomach, they are not digested, but immediately enter the bloodstream, that is, they are instantly absorbed. Choosing the right drug is not an easy task. It is even difficult for beginners to decide on the variety of brands presented. In the article we will talk about the main characteristics that should be taken into account when purchasing, and also give a rating review.

After a thorough analysis of user reviews and expert opinions, Expertology experts prepared a rating of the 12 best amino acids.

Glycine

This is an amino acid that does not have optical isomers in its structure and is present in many biologically active substances and proteins. The body experiences a particularly acute need for glycine during periods of prolonged stress, after suffering an ischemic stroke, with diseases of the central nervous system and a state of increased excitability, during high physical exertion.

A course of glycine involves taking the drug three times, 1000 milligrams each, that is, 3 grams per day for a month. When an urgent need arises, the course can be repeated. In some people, this amino acid causes increased sensitivity, which becomes an obstacle to the use of the substance.

Glycine consumption:

• improves mood;
• reduces aggression;
• normalizes sleep;
• increases mental activity;
• protects the nervous system from the influence of toxic and harmful substances, including alcohol.

This amino acid can be purchased freely. It is sold through pharmacies in packages of 30 tablets with a total weight of 250 milligrams. One pack costs about 50 rubles. The main purpose of glycine is to stimulate brain activity. Athletes also often resort to taking this amino acid.

Amino acids. Glycine. Real effects. Sedation and blood pressure

Harm and contraindications

Amino acids negatively affect digestion in chronic gastrointestinal diseases or a hereditary predisposition to them.

Other harmful properties:

• excessive stress on the heart;
• increased permeability of vascular walls;
• increased nervous activity;
• depression of kidney and liver functions.

Contraindications to their use are associated with the harmful properties of such organic molecules.

Amino acids should not be taken by people with:

• hypertension;
• chronic inflammation of the bile and urinary ducts;
• diabetes mellitus;
• liver cirrhosis;
• pancreatic dysfunction;
• neurological pathologies;
• autoimmune diseases;
• disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.

You should refrain from using amino acid complexes during pregnancy and lactation, as well as during adolescence, when hormonal levels are still balanced and the muscular system is actively developing.

Methionine

This is an essential amino acid. Part of proteins, it improves liver function, reduces the concentration of bad cholesterol, and is an antidepressant. It enters the body with food. The highest concentration of methionine is found in beef and chicken; in slightly smaller quantities it is found in pearl barley, eggs, cottage cheese, pasta, wheat, buckwheat, and oatmeal. The compound is found in soybeans, beans, and bananas, but in a minimal proportion.

The optimal consumption rate is 0.5 grams three times a day. Methionine is prescribed to people suffering from protein deficiency, dystrophy, and various liver diseases. The amino acid is contraindicated in case of viral hepatitis or hypersensitivity to the compound. Methionine is sold in packages of 50 tablets (250 mg), costing on average about 100 rubles.

Popular amino drugs for weight loss after 40-50 years

With age, metabolic processes slow down, the synthesis of proteins, including connective proteins, on which the condition of the skin and the appearance of wrinkles depends, decreases. After 40 years, a woman gains 200-300 g of body fat per year.

After 50 years, excess weight is at least 16 kg. Amino preparations will help accelerate lipid metabolism. Moderate physical activity will significantly speed up the process of body correction.

Powder form

Such drugs dissolve slowly and leave a white sediment at the bottom of the container.

Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy

As part of a comprehensive weight loss product, quickly absorbed amino acids are combined with natural antidepressants and bioactive components that enhance the secretion of nitric oxide.

The drug is produced in 2 weights - 270 and 586 g. It contains fat-burning amino acids arginine, isoleucine, methionine. The dietary supplement has a tonic effect due to the presence of caffeine. Contraindications: individual intolerance, pregnancy and lactation.

Amino acids for women's weight loss in the form of a finely dispersed solid composition have a bitter taste, but are quickly absorbed by the body.

Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy is used for:

• enhancing protein synthesis;
• activation of regenerative processes;
• converting adipocytes into energy;
• acceleration of lipid metabolism.

The drug is taken 3 times a day by mixing 2 measuring spoons of the product included in the kit with 300 ml of juice or water. The amino acid supplement costs RUB 1,186.

Amino Drink Powder

Sports powder for dilution in drinks. Contains a full complex of fat-burning amino acids.

Action:

• stimulates muscle growth;
• prevents the breakdown of muscle threads;
• destroys lipid acids.

The biochemical basis of the drug is free amino acids and the hydrolysis product of whey protein. The drink is produced in plastic containers with a capacity of 500 ml. The kit includes a measuring cup with a capacity of 25 g.

Take the drug before and after training, 1 serving, diluted in 300 ml of water or juice. There are no contraindications when taken at the indicated dosage. Used to gain muscle mass and burn fat. Price – 1850 rub.

Cellucor Alpha Amino

Nutritional supplement rich in BCAA amino acid. Contains taurine, glutamine, energy plant extracts.

Physiological effects:

• acceleration of muscle growth;
• tonic effect;
• strengthening the musculoskeletal system;
• intensification of protein-carbohydrate metabolism;
• improvement of RNA and nuclein secretion.

The drug is contraindicated for people with cardiovascular diseases, liver pathologies, and allergic reactions. Available in powder form. Package capacity – 385 g (30 servings). Measuring cup included. Take 1-2 servings per day with meals. Diluted into 200 ml of liquid. The approximate cost of packaging is 1837 rubles.

Liquid form

Such amino acids are absorbed faster than powdered ones. Available in monodoses or as a concentrated solution for dilution in drinking liquids. Popular among athletes and suitable for women for weight loss.

Ultra-Pure Amino

High-quality dietary supplement with an expanded component composition.
In addition to fat-burning amino acids, it contains whey protein isolate and hydrolyzed collagen. Biochemical properties:

• splitting of lipid fibers;
• tissue regeneration;
• improving the condition of the skin;
• normalization of reproductive function.

The drug is produced in containers with a lid-measuring cup. Package volume – 960 ml. It is designed for 16 receptions. Consume once a day in the morning during breakfast. Contraindications: systemic allergies and gastrointestinal dysfunction. Approximate cost – 1350 rubles.

Amino Liquid

Multicomponent amino acid complex. The 500 ml and 1 liter bottles contain 20 or 40 servings respectively. Measuring cap included.

Indications for use:

• excess weight;
• slow metabolism;
• pain in muscles and joints;
• formation of wrinkles on the hands, neck, face;
• suppressed reproductive function.

Contains glutamic acid, which has a psychostimulating effect. For weight loss, take 1 serving diluted in drinking liquid 2-3 times a day with meals. Price for 500 ml is 1210 rubles, for 1 liter – 1890.

Amino Craft Liquid

Liquid amino acid weight loss product contains protein.

Includes:

• fructose;
• vitamin B6;
• collagen hydrolysis product;
• wine acid;

The drug supports the immune status, replaces lipid tissues with proteins, and restores the natural structure of the skin. Contraindications: pregnancy and lactation, tendency to anaphylaxis.

The recommended dose is 15 ml of the drug per 100 g of water or other drinking liquid 2-3 times a day after waking up and during meals. Measure the required volume using the supplied measuring cap. Price – 1500 rub.

Tablets, capsules

Amino acids in these release forms have a neutral taste and are easy to store and use. The only drawback of capsules and tablets is the relatively low concentration of active ingredients.

Amino Gold Ultimate

A product based on a complex of fat-burning amino acids and whey protein that replaces lipid tissue.
Available in packages of 250 and 325 capsules. Auxiliary components:

• microcrystalline cellulose;
• croscarmellose sodium;
• calcium phosphate;
• stearic acid.

Recommended for amino acid deficiency and excess weight. The drug regenerates tissue, improves digestion and absorption of nutrients by cells. Do not take during pregnancy and lactation.

Contains glycine, which has sedative, analgesic and calming effects. For weight loss, take 1 capsule 3 times a day with meals. A package of 325 capsules costs about 2,100 rubles.

Anabolic Amino

Contains BCAA, taurine, other amino acids and vitamins. Intensifies anabolic processes, burns fat, and is quickly absorbed. Contraindications: minor age, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Available in packs of 400 capsules. It is designed for 66 receptions. Take 6 capsules at a time. Recommended dose – 12-18 pcs. per day. Take after a night's sleep and during meals. Approximate price – 2040 rubles.

AAKG SAN Nutrition

The complex drug improves energy metabolism in cells, ensures nitrogen balance, and lowers the blood glycemic index. AAKG SAN Nutrition is involved in the breakdown of subcutaneous fat deposits.

The amino acid package contains 120 capsules. For weight loss, women 40-50 years old are recommended to take 1 pc. 3 times a day after waking up in the morning and during meals. The drug has no contraindications or side effects. Price – 1150 rub.

Glutamine

Refers to conditionally essential amino acids included in protein. It is responsible for supporting the immune system and is necessary for gaining muscle mass. The cost of this organic compound is higher than that of glycine and may vary in different countries.

If we compare glutamine in the form of a sports supplement and a pharmaceutical product, then purchasing the latter option is usually much more profitable. It is recommended to take this amino acid twice a day, 4-8 grams. It is best to take glutamine after training and at night (before bed).

Taking glutamine has the following effects:

• provides the necessary energy;
• provides anti-catabolic protection;
• strengthens the immune system;
• accelerates and improves recovery processes;
• stimulates muscle growth.

Sports nutrition. Glutamine.

Benefits of pharmaceutical drugs

The rating of drugs from the pharmacy is interesting, first of all, because at a relatively low cost, it exhibits the properties that athletes need when building muscle mass. A precondition for their use is laboratory examination and specification of the task at hand.

Due to the different forms of release, these drugs differ in the method of administration. Dosages agreed with your doctor are important. Injectable medications have no competitors in terms of speed of action. But invasive administration is always accompanied by the risk of infection and the occurrence of unwanted complications. The timing of receiving funds is also important.

For maximum muscle growth effect, they should be taken in the morning, before and after strength training. If we are talking about losing weight, then 6 times a day in equal portions. The athlete’s weight and training loads are taken into account. The dosage of amino acids varies from 5 to 20 g.

Another nuance lies in sports nutrition. It is not always wise to combine it with drugs. In this case, amino acids are poorly absorbed and the benefits of taking them are neutralized. The same applies to their combination with gainers, proteins and a simple meal. They are not competitive in this situation. There are no cycles when using amino acids; you can drink them for an unlimited time, without breaks.

What reviews do they leave about pharmaceutical amino acids?

Amino acids sold freely through a network of pharmacies are in high demand among bodybuilders and many athletes. The vast majority of people taking such drugs speak about them in a positive way. There are also negative reviews that note the presence of such negative phenomena as nausea with vomiting and stomach upset. These manifestations are caused by substance abuse. If you follow the dosage, the pharmaceutical amino acid will be an excellent alternative to expensive sports nutrition and will help you achieve your goals.

Igor January 5, 2017

The best amino acids

Consuming the best elements can greatly accelerate body weight loss, muscle building, and even help the body maintain the ongoing processes.

BCAAs

BCAA is a complex of amino acids with a branched chain structure; it includes leucine, isoleucine and valine. Its action is aimed at maintaining the muscles that are currently working and preventing the breakdown of fibers.

L-carnitine

L-carnitine is synthesized on the basis of compounds such as methionine and lysine. It is able to prevent the deposition of fat mass by moving its molecules directly into the mitochondria, where they are instantly converted into energy used to carry out vital processes.

L-carnitine also has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system and helps form muscle fibers.

Tyrosine

Tyrosine is formed in the body from phenylalanine and helps to produce hormones that are responsible for accelerating metabolic processes in cells and burning fat. It is also able to suppress hunger, so it is recommended for use while following a low-calorie diet .

Leucine

Leucine helps increase calorie expenditure, maintain muscle mass, improve metabolism and suppress hunger . Consumption of leucine and controlling the caloric content of food intake at the same time help to break down fat deposits many times faster.

Tryptophan

Tryptophan has a calming effect, the ability to normalize sleep and regulates the level of production of various hormones . It’s a well-known fact: when you don’t get enough sleep, you want to eat much more – that’s why taking the compound can reduce the feeling of hunger by helping a person get enough sleep.

Lysine

Taking lysine for weight loss is useful, if only because it accelerates the process of breakdown of fat mass during physical activity . It also helps the body synthesize L-carnitine, which lowers blood cholesterol levels.

Glutamine

Consuming glutamine can speed up muscle recovery after training, improve immunity and speed up the breakdown of fat deposits . It reduces the level of the hormone cortisol, which prevents weight loss.

Arginine

With the help of arginine, you can dilate blood vessels and increase the flow of biological fluid to the muscles . One of the main advantages of the supplement is slowing down the development of tumor diseases and strengthening the immune system.

Ornithine

Ornithine is very similar to arginine and helps form new, healthy muscle fibers by enhancing the activity of anabolic hormones. It is able to support normal liver and immune system functions.

Beta-alanine

Beta-alanine helps increase L-carnosine (not L-carnitine), which helps prevent increased lactic acid buildup in muscle fibers. It can also increase endurance, helping you train much longer in the gym.

Contents in products

When developing a menu during a period of weight loss, it is worth including in your diet foods enriched with amino acids that are valuable for a woman’s body.

Amino acids for weight loss: review and rating of supplements, including BCAAs

Essential amino acids must necessarily come from outside, since the body is not able to provide itself with these biologically active compounds on its own. Amino acids of both groups can enter the body either as part of proteins or as a hydrolyzate, represented by free amino acids that do not require additional effort for breakdown and absorption.

The amino acids of the hydrolyzate immediately enter the bloodstream and guarantee the saturation of the protein structures of muscle fibers with the necessary components. The fundamental difference between a hydrolyzate and a complex of free amino acids is its natural origin.

The most valuable sources of essential amino acids are egg white hydrolyzate and whey protein. Amino acids are an essential component of any diet aimed at meeting the body’s plastic needs, since without these organic compounds it is impossible to maintain a high level of metabolism in the body. Regular intake of non-essential and essential amino acids into the body ensures effective renewal of muscle tissue, guarantees high immune tension, and prevents excessive formation of subcutaneous fatty tissue.

With a sufficient content of amino acids in the diet, it is possible to maintain high performance, prevent a decrease in mood, and make it easier to tolerate the disadvantages of a low-calorie diet. Amino acids increase the rate of muscle tissue growth, make training more effective, guarantee rapid recovery, and prevent the formation of pain. The undeniable advantages of amino acid complexes include preventing the breakdown of muscle tissue, which is very important in conditions of severe protein restriction in the diet.

The use of amino acids for weight loss is physiologically justified, since these chemical compounds are natural fat burners. Their pronounced weight loss effect depends on the characteristics of the metabolism. Thus, much more energy is expended for the absorption, breakdown and transformation of amino acids than is generated during decay.

How should women take BCAA?

Analyzing this question, you can also make sure that we will not see anything special in relation to girls. There are no strict restrictions or significant differences here. The recommended daily dosage for girls is 20-25g BCAA. This dose should be divided into several doses. Here is an approximate diagram of how to take BCAA for women:

• In the morning on an empty stomach;
• Before training;
• During training;
• After training;
• Before bedtime.

On rest days, when visiting the gym is not included in the plans, the daily dose can be divided into three doses:

• In the morning on an empty stomach;
• Between meals;
• Before bedtime.

Learn the secrets of how to drink BCAA! A unique regimen that produces results!

Common complexes

Today you can buy the following amino acids in a pharmacy for muscle growth:

• L-glutamine. It is the most common substance in the human body. Available in tablets and capsules.
• Histidine. Presented in the form of capsules, the solution of which is administered intramuscularly.
• Amino acids and amino acid complexes. Can be seen on the shelves of sports nutrition stores.

• BCAA - capsules or tablets of your choice, packed in glass containers.
• Taurine is available in the form of tablets, powder and capsules. May be contained in drugs such as Peptamen, Dibikor and others.
• L-arginine (vasotone). In addition to capsules and tablets, you can purchase dietary supplements and other vitamins in the form.

Leucine, valine, isoleucine are considered to have the most effect on the development, maintenance and restoration of muscle mass. Taking these drugs at the same time helps to maximize their effect on the body. These types of amino acids are purchased at the pharmacy at an affordable price in the required quantities.

Description of the complex for muscle growth

The totality of elements from a protein is a complex of amino acids. Bodybuilders often buy them at the pharmacy, because muscles consist almost entirely of proteins. They are necessary for muscle fibers to grow, strengthen and repair.

Attention! It is worth noting the properties of the complex that promote the production of hormones.

These elements increase strength and endurance, restore mental state at the end of training, break down subcutaneous fats and improve the working process of the brain. You can buy amino acids at the pharmacy; the name, however, may be unknown to the buyer. A specialist will advise on this issue and help you choose the appropriate drug.

The main purpose of amino acids in muscle growth

Amino acids are important supplements that are essentially made up of protein. Thanks to their composition, amino acids improve the growth of muscle fibers and produce hormones that help damage muscle mass.

The main purposes for taking medications are:

• Rapid increase in muscle volume;
• Increasing the effectiveness of classes;
• Fast recovery after intense exercise;
• Reduced muscle pain after training;
• Enrichment of nutrition with proteins;
• Decreased desire to eat;
• Burning unnecessary fats.

The important purpose of amino acids lies in the last point. This is due to the fact that the absorption of proteins requires additional energy expenditure, and, accordingly, greater calorie consumption. Therefore, the drugs are also suitable for weight loss.

Supplements to help you stay in shape

BCAAs are a must-have supplement for female athletes, but there are several other products that will help you not only stay in good shape all year round, but also improve your quality and improve your well-being.

The best fat burners

Fat burners are under no circumstances accepted all year round! This is the category of supplements that must be taken in courses and only when you need to burn fat, you have provided yourself with proper nutrition and supporting supplements.

Yellow Demons

Price: 2420.00 rub.

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Red Wasp

Price: 1990.00 rub.

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RED Labs Oxy Red

Price: 1890.00 rub. 1690.00 rub.

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But it is important to understand that fat burners give the body some stress. So the following supplements are a must!

• Protein;
• Amino acids;
• Vitamin complexes;
• Healthy fats.

To increase the effectiveness of taking supplements, we advise you to learn how to take sports nutrition correctly.

The best proteins

Blackstone Labs Isolation

Price: 3390.00 rub.

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Revange Nutrition Iso Pro

Price: 2990.00 rub.

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Blackstone Labs Formula 19

Price: 4410.00 rub. 4210.00 rub.

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The best amino acids

Core Labs X Arginine Nitrate

Price: 2180.00 rub.

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Bio Tech Nutra Muscleade

Price: 2900.00 rub.

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Core Labs X Amino Power

Price: 3290.00 rub.

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The best vitamins

Infinite Labs Men's Multivitamin

Price: 1990.00 rub.

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Infinite Labs Women's Multivitamin

Price: 1990.00 rub.

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NOW Vitamin D-3 5000 ME (120 capsules)

Price: 1150.00 rub.

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The best fatty acids

Now Foods Alpha Lipoic Acid 100 mg 120 capsules

Price: 2090.00 rub.

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21st Century Fish Oil 1000 mg

Price: 1760.00 rub.

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Infinite Labs Omega 3,6,9

Price: 1580.00 rub.

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