Question

What are essential amino acids?

Hint:

Essential amino acids = Not synthesized in body → Must be taken in food.

Answer 1

Concept: Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Based on the body's ability to synthesize them, they are classified into:

• Essential amino acids
• Non-essential amino acids

Definition:
Essential amino acids are those amino acids which cannot be synthesized by the human body in sufficient amounts and must be obtained through diet.
Explanation: Since the body cannot produce them, they must be supplied by protein-rich foods such as:

• Milk
• Eggs
• Meat
• Pulses and legumes

Examples of essential amino acids:

• Valine
• Leucine
• Isoleucine
• Lysine
• Methionine
• Threonine
• Phenylalanine
• Tryptophan

Importance:

• Required for growth and repair of tissues
• Essential for enzyme and hormone synthesis
• Important for immune function

\[ \therefore \text{Essential amino acids must be supplied through diet. \]