Amino acids — clear, claim-safe guidance & transparent labels
Amino acids are organic compounds found in dietary proteins. The body uses them to build proteins; nine are classed as essential (obtained from the diet), while others are non-essential (the body can synthesise them). This page follows UK guidance — you’ll see neutral, product-fact wording with no unauthorised health claims.
General facts (what to look for on the label)
- Amount per serving: clearly stated mg per capsule/tablet (e.g., 500 mg L-glutamine; 1000 mg L-lysine).
- Form & format: single-ingredient capsules or tablets; check serving size and directions for use.
- Suitability & quality: vegan/vegetarian status, UK-made references and GMP manufacturing.
- Combining products: if you also use protein powders or other amino acids, read all labels to manage total daily amounts.
Important note about claims
In Great Britain there are no authorised health claims for individual amino acids such as L-glutamine, L-lysine, L-tyrosine, taurine or L-carnitine. Product pages therefore use neutral language (dose, format, suitability) and do not refer to disease prevention or treatment.
Related context: certain protein products (not single amino acids) may carry authorised claims like “protein contributes to the growth and maintenance of muscle mass” and “maintenance of normal bones”, when they provide the qualifying amount. Those claims apply to protein as a nutrient, not to stand-alone amino acids.
What you’ll find in this category
L-Glutamine
Single-ingredient amino acid in capsule format (e.g., 500 mg per capsule). Vegan/vegetarian options, UK-made to GMP where stated. Follow on-pack directions.
L-Lysine
Essential amino acid in tablet format (e.g., 1000 mg per tablet). Vegan/vegetarian options, UK-made to GMP where stated. Follow on-pack directions.
Other amino acids you may see here (coming soon)
- L-Tyrosine — single-ingredient amino acid; label will state mg per serving and directions.
- Taurine — single-ingredient amino acid; neutral product facts only.
- L-Carnitine — often listed as L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine; check serving size and suitability.
- Glycine, BCAAs (leucine, isoleucine, valine) — if offered, labels will show amounts per serving and usage guidance.
For all entries above: no unauthorised health claims are made; follow each product’s label.
Who might consider an amino-acid supplement?
- Convenience: people who prefer measured, capsule/tablet servings to track intake.
- Diet patterns: those structuring protein and amino-acid intake within a balanced diet (e.g., vegetarian/vegan formats where desired).
- Routine fit: users who want a simple once- or twice-daily format, as directed on the label.
This section gives lifestyle contexts only. It does not claim diagnosis, treatment or prevention of disease.
How to choose confidently
- Check the mg per serving and the serving size (e.g., 1–6 capsules/day as directed).
- Confirm suitability (vegetarian/vegan) and any allergy statements on the label.
- Look for UK-made and GMP references where relevant.
- Store and use as directed; keep out of the reach of children.
Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or under medical supervision, seek professional advice before use.