Aminoacids in Sport and Bodybuilding
Amino acids in bodybuilding are just as important for muscle growth as protein because the latter is made up of them.
When protein enters the body, the protein molecule breaks down during digestion into its components—amino acids—which are then used for building muscle tissue, hormone synthesis, creating hair and nails, and performing a multitude of other functions.
Why Amino Acid Supplements Are Popular
Considering their crucial role in muscle mass gain, sports nutrition manufacturers offer many of the 22 essential amino acids in the form of individual products.
They explain their benefits by stating that the body does not need to spend time and energy digesting protein to obtain them; they are readily available and, therefore, more effective.
The Contradiction: Protein Already Contains Amino Acids..
The contradiction surrounding amino acids as a sports supplement is that any high-quality protein, whether from sports supplements or natural foods, already contains all the necessary amino acids in optimal proportions.
If an athlete’s diet includes enough complete protein (which is often the case), it is very unlikely that they need to take individual amino acids as supplements.
According to doctors’ opinions on the advantages of whole protein over free amino acids, even the process of protein breakdown is important, as it is accompanied by the release of growth hormone, which stimulates muscle growth.
The Potential Risks of Amino Acid Overdose
The question of the harm of amino acids is rarely raised, possibly because of their “natural” nature, which in many people’s minds is associated with “safety” and “benefit,” as well as their essential role in the body’s functioning—after all, something beneficial can’t be harmful…
However, even the most beneficial and natural substances can pose risks to human health. In the case of amino acids, their overdose is dangerous, especially when there is a high intake of products containing them: natural protein-rich foods, sports proteins, and amino acid supplements—all of which are commonly consumed by bodybuilders.
The Harmful Effects of Excess Protein
According to scientific research on the harm of protein, its excess (i.e., excess amino acids) leads to increased acidity in the body, which weakens bones, increases the risk of kidney stones, and contributes to cancer development.
Animal Protein and Its Carcinogenic Effects
Animal protein is considered by scientists “one of the main carcinogens.”
The greatest danger comes from proteins with high biological value—especially animal proteins—primarily due to their high content of sulfur-containing amino acids, one of which—methionine, is very popular as a supplement in bodybuilding.
Verdict
While amino acids are essential for various bodily functions and muscle growth, supplementation with individual amino acids is often unnecessary if the diet contains sufficient complete proteins.
Overuse or overdose of amino acid supplements can lead to health issues, including increased acidity in the body, weakened bones, kidney stones, and even cancer. It is crucial to approach supplementation with caution and focus on a balanced diet with adequate protein intake.
Additionally, consuming high amounts of animal proteins can pose risks due to their sulfur-containing amino acids, particularly methionine.