How Essential Amino Acids (EAAs) Work in the Body:

Essential amino acids are the building blocks of protein that the body cannot produce on its own — they must be obtained through diet or supplements.


There Are 9 Essential Amino Acids:

  1. Leucine – muscle protein synthesis
  2. Isoleucine – energy regulation
  3. Valine – muscle recovery
  4. Lysine – immune support, collagen production
  5. Methionine – detox, metabolism
  6. Phenylalanine – neurotransmitter production
  7. Threonine – skin and connective tissue
  8. Tryptophan – mood (serotonin), sleep
  9. Histidine – immune function, tissue repair

How EAAs Work in Your Body(Essential amino acids)

  1. Protein Synthesis
    → EAAs help build and repair muscle tissue by activating mTOR, a key muscle-building signal.
  2. Prevent Muscle Breakdown
    → During exercise or fasting, EAAs are used to protect muscle from being broken down for energy.
  3. Enzyme & Hormone Production
    → EAAs are needed to make enzymes (for digestion) and hormones (like insulin and serotonin).
  4. Neurotransmitter Support
    → EAAs like tryptophan and phenylalanine are precursors to dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine — essential for mood, motivation, and focus.
  5. Recovery & Immune Support
    → EAAs aid in recovery after workouts and help maintain immune health by supporting white blood cell function.

EAAs & Athletic Performance(Essential amino acids)

BenefitHow EAAs Help
Muscle growthStimulate muscle protein synthesis (especially leucine)
RecoveryReduce soreness, speed up tissue repair
EnduranceDelay fatigue by preserving muscle glycogen
Focus & moodImprove mental performance under stress

Natural Sources of EAAs:

  • Eggs
  • Chicken, beef, fish
  • Dairy (milk, yogurt, whey)
  • Soy, quinoa, buckwheat
  • EAA supplements (for fasted or intense training)

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By fathom