Essential Amino Acids – indispensable in the diet

Important as building blocks and as regulators of numerous processes

There are 13 essential and semi-essential amino acids. Essential amino acids must always be obtained from food – the body cannot produce them itself. Semi-essential amino acids can be produced by the body; however, in certain situations the amount is not sufficient – for example during growth or under physical stress such as illness. In these cases, these amino acids must also be obtained through the diet.