Amino acids are often referred to as the basic building blocks of life. They enable the synthesis of the so-called proteins (also called proteins), which in turn make up human cells .
In this article, you will learn why amino acids are so important for your body and what role oats play in this regard !
What exactly are amino acids?
Amino acids themselves are made up of different compounds containing nitrogen, carbon and oxygen. They differ in their functions and structure and are therefore divided into many different categories. For this classification, it is often decisive where the so-called "functional group" occurs in the molecule.
The functional groups are crucially responsible for what properties a molecule exhibits externally and how it reacts with other molecules. These properties include, for example, size, spatial shape and charge.
In addition, the pH value of the surrounding environment is decisive for amino acids. Depending on the nature of their environment, they can react in either an alkaline or acidic manner. Thus, the pH level in our body has a significant influence on this.
What amino acids are there?
Essential and non-essential amino acids
In principle, amino acids can be divided into essential and non-essential categories. Much of the amino acids can be produced by the body itself; these are referred to as non-essential amino acids.
Essential amino acids, on the other hand, can only be supplied by the body through a healthy diet . Therefore, oats are often recommended, especially in the athlete's diet, as they contain a large portion of essential amino acids in addition to vitamins and minerals.
Semi-essential amino acids
Semi-essential amino acids are those that the body itself can produce from other essential amino acids.
They are therefore also referred to as "conditionally essential" amino acids. If certain amino acids are no longer available to the body, which means a particular endogenous (to be produced) substance is absent, certain physical functions may be restricted.
Proteinogenic and non-proteinogenic amino acids
Proteinogenic amino acids are involved in the process of translation (the process of converting a gene into a protein) and thus ensure protein biosynthesis. These are often called L-amino acids due to their so-called L-configuration.
More than 20 different amino acids are currently known. Conversely, those that are not involved in protein biosynthesis are referred to as non-proteinogenic amino acids. Nevertheless, they are responsible for many other processes in the body. More than 400 different body functions have been identified so far.
α-amino acids, β-amino acids and γ-amino acids
Each amino acid consists of several carbon atoms. The subdivision into α-amino acids, β-amino acids and γ-amino acids indicates the carbon atom to which the functional groups (also referred to as amino groups) are attached.
In this context, the term amino acids is generally understood to refer to the so-called L-α-amino acids, i.e., the particularly significant proteinogenic amino acids.
The most important amino acids in oats
Oats (lat. Avena sativa ) are rich in minerals and vitamins . It is considered one of the most nutrient-dense cereals. However, it's not just minerals and vitamins that are present. Oats are among the foods that are best suited for absorbing amino acids.
This is because oats contain a number of essential amino acids. A lack of amino acids can lead to fatigue and weaken your immune system – prevent this with oats, for example, by having porridge for breakfast !
All of these amino acids in oats are naturally present:
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Methionine (& Cysteine)
- Phenylalanine (& Tyrosine)
- Valine
- Histidine
- Threonine
- Tryptophan
- Arginine
What effect do amino acids have in oats?
Unlike synthetically produced supplements, oats are naturally rich in amino acids. The amino acids positively affect muscle building and are therefore ideal for athletes of all kinds.
Additionally, the fiber it contains, beta glucan . can help lower cholesterol levels. Cardiovascular diseases are thus also prevented. Furthermore, oats are the perfect pre-workout food as porridge . It's truly a superfood!
Oatmeal breakfast with yogurt & banana
Equipment
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Bowl or (lockable) glass
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Spoon
-
Knife
Ingredients
- 50 g oatmeal (approx. 4 tbsp)
- 100 g yogurt or plant-based alternative
- 1 banana
Toppings
- 1 handful of blueberries
- 1 tsp. peanut butter
Preparation
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Put the oatmeal (about 4 tbsp) and yogurt in a bowl or glass and mix the two ingredients well.
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Cut the banana into thin slices and mix them in.
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Place the oatmeal-yogurt mixture covered in the refrigerator and let it swell for at least an hour. Our tip: Just mix it in the evening and soak it in the fridge overnight. This saves time!
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Take your breakfast out of the fridge and add a splash of peanut butter and blueberries. Done!
Nutritional values
The function of amino acids
Leucine
Leucine is an important component for
building muscle
.
It supports protein biosynthesis in the muscles or liver and inhibits the breakdown of proteins in the muscle. In addition, it helps with various healing processes.
Especially athletes who require significant power can utilize this natural energy source during their workouts. With the VERIVAL Sport products , you can ideally meet your energy and protein needs.
Lysine
Lysine affects your connective and muscle tissue. It is especially important during pregnancy as it supports bone growth and cell division. A deficiency can lead to a weakened immune defense.
Methionine & Cysteine
are also involved in building muscle tissue and are important components in the synthesis of cysteine. In addition, methionine plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism.
Phenylalanine & Tyrosine
This amino acid is involved in the formation of several hormones and supports the growth of muscle tissue. Phenylalanine is best known for the synthesis of the happiness hormone dopamine.
Valine
Valine significantly impacts the function of nerves, as it promotes the metabolism of neurotransmitters. This has a corresponding influence on the transmission of stimuli and thus ensures a smooth exchange of information between the individual nerve cells.
Histidine
Histidine is required by your body to bind iron together with the blood pigment hemoglobin and the muscle pigment myoglobin.
Threonine
Threonine is found in bones and teeth in your body. This amino acid is present in collagen and therefore also serves to protect tendons and ligaments.
Tryptophan
Tryptophan is considered a lucky amino acid in the body. This is because this amino acid is converted to the neurotransmitter serotonin and thus has a mood-boosting effect.
Arginine
Arginine improves your blood, oxygen, and nutrient uptake by the muscle cell. It thus ensures better blood circulation to the muscles in strength training.
Eat a sustainable and healthy breakfast with VERIVAL porridge
Oats have long been known as a natural remedy. Due to their high fiber content, they frequently have a healing effect on gastrointestinal complaints. They are often used as support during detox treatments, helping to flush out metabolic products.
In addition, their various ingredients, when applied externally, provide a beneficial effect on rheumatism and joint pain.
Of course, a certain amount of grain is an essential part of a balanced diet. You should ensure that you consume organic oats as much as possible.
Since your body needs a good foundation for the day in the morning, we recommend a healthy breakfast : porridge from VERIVAL.
Whether vegan, gluten-free, or without added sugar, our range offers a great selection for all diets and preferences. Our breakfast products such as porridge, cereal , granola are made in Tyrol.
Gentle and careful production is particularly important to us. This is how unique organic foods are created. We are convinced that you can see, smell, and taste the difference.
