Amino acids are natural compounds that form protein, which is essential for muscle repair, hormone production, digestion and overall performance. When proteins break down, amino acids are released to rebuild tissues and support recovery. Amino acid supplements provide a concentrated dose of these building blocks, making them popular for fitness and muscle support.

There are three types: essential amino acids like leucine and lysine (collectively known as BCAAs), which must come from food or supplements, non-essential amino acids, which your body can produce on its own and conditionally essential amino acids like arginine, which become critical during illness, intense training or stress. Understanding these types helps you fuel better, recover faster and optimise your performance, especially if your diet is plant-based or protein-limited.

Amino acid supplements can be very helpful, especially for supporting muscle health and the immune system. As the building blocks of protein, amino acids are important for repairing and growing body tissues, making hormones, and keeping skin, hair and nails healthy. Taking essential amino acids regularly can help prevent muscle breakdown, encourage muscle growth and restore immune function. These supplements can also provide energy, support digestion and boost overall vitality.

Amino acids might help with fat loss, including belly fat, by boosting metabolism and supporting important processes in the body. Certain amino acids like branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) have shown promise in preventing weight gain and encouraging fat loss. Amino acids such as L-arginine and L-carnitine can aid in fat burning by improving insulin sensitivity and helping fatty acids enter cells to be used as energy. Leucine, in particular, may be helpful in reducing visceral fat, the fat around internal organs.

Yes, you can take amino acids every day, but it's important to do so in moderation. A balanced diet usually gives you all the essential amino acids you need, but if you're very active or have specific goals like muscle growth or recovery, supplements can help.