About Amino Acids

The following is a summary of the functions of the amino acids vital for the survival of dogs and cats. Please take a moment to read through it.

Leucine

Leucine is said to promote muscle formation, prevent muscle breakdown, and enhance liver function. Additionally, it increases the secretion of insulin (a hormone that lowers blood sugar levels), helping to transport glucose into muscle cells. It is also expected to help alleviate stress due to its similar effects to endorphins, which are neurotransmitters in the brain that provide pain relief and a sense of happiness.

【Foods rich in leucine】
– Beef
– Pork
– Chicken
– Liver
– Salmon
– Horse mackerel
– Bonito
– Soy products

【Potential issues due to leucine deficiency】
– Decreased liver function, which can lead to insulin deficiency and cause diabetes
– Reduced muscle strength
– Accumulation of fatigue
– Hair loss

Isoleucine

Isoleucine is known to promote muscle and body growth, exert a vasodilatory effect, and strengthen liver function. Additionally, isoleucine uniquely supports nerve function. Other important roles include fatigue recovery, diabetes prevention, and maintaining the health of skin and hair.

【Foods rich in isoleucine】
– Chicken
– Pork
– Eggs
– Salmon
– Bluefin tuna

【Potential issues due to isoleucine deficiency】
– Muscle depletion
– Diminished hair (coat) moisture
– Skin inflammation

Valine

Valine is an amino acid involved in growth, has liver-strengthening effects, regulates nitrogen balance in the blood, and aids in muscle repair. It is also beneficial for skin health, maintaining skin elasticity, and promoting detoxification by enhancing ammonia metabolism.

【Foods rich in valine】
– Liver
– Bluefin tuna
– Tofu

【Potential issues due to valine deficiency】
– Loss of appetite
– Malnutrition

Lysine

Lysine is an essential nutrient for protein construction in the body, aiding in fatigue recovery and tissue repair, and improving concentration. It also supports liver function, helps lower blood pressure, and is necessary for the production of carnitine, which helps convert fat into energy.

【Foods rich in lysine】
– Bonito
– Horse mackerel
– Chicken

【Potential issues due to lysine deficiency】
– Accumulation of fatigue
– Decreased liver function
– Increased cholesterol levels
– Anemia
– Nausea
– Dizziness

Arginine

Arginine promotes the secretion of growth hormones, strengthens muscle tissue, and enhances immunity. It also involves the secretion of insulin and glucagon, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels. Additionally, arginine aids in detoxifying ammonia and promotes vasodilation and improved blood flow through the production of nitric oxide.

【Foods rich in arginine】
– Chicken
– Pork
– Soybeans
– Unsweetened soy milk
– Freeze-dried tofu
– Sesame

【Potential issues due to arginine deficiency】
– Poor growth
– Arteriosclerosis
– Accelerated aging
– Swelling

Taurine