Description: Amino acids are the individual building blocks of protein. There are approximately twenty different amino acids. Ten of the amino acids are known as "essential amino acids," which means that our body cannot manufacture them, so it is essential that we consume them in our diets. The remaining ten nonessential amino acids can be manufactured in the body.

Indications: Amino acid supplements are used for a variety of conditions, as mentioned throughout this book. Individual amino acids will be described in this section.

Precautions: People with liver or kidney disease should not supplement amino acids unless under the direction of a health-care professional.

Dosage: Generally, take 250 to 500 mg three times daily, between meals.