Amino acids are considered to be the building blocks of proteins, which makes them incredibly important to athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness buffs. When your body digests protein through food or supplements, it breaks down into different amino acids that have specific functions in the body. Getting more of them can help you build muscle and sustain it over time.

Essential amino acids include histidine, lysine, phenylalanine, methionine, and others. Meanwhile, non-essential amino acids include glutamine, arginine, cysteine, and HMB. Don’t be fooled by the term “non-essential,” because these are very important amino acids too. In fact, non-essential amino acids are only produced when the body needs them and are not as present in foods as the “essential” ones are.

Here are a few of the different ways that you can take amino acid supplements and how to choose the one that’s right for you.

Amino Acid Liquid

Amino acid liquid has a full spectrum of essential and non-essential amino acids in a fast-acting concentrate that’s easy to digest and quickly absorbed in the body. Challenger Nutrition’s special liquid amino acid formula contains 24 grams of amino acids per serving, combining the proteins you need while training. This is an ideal product for individuals who value good taste, love to cook, and enjoy experimenting in the kitchen. The delicious grape, fruit punch, and peach-mango flavors mix great with juice, smoothies, salads, vegetable dishes, meats, tofu, casseroles, and stir fry recipes.

Amino Acid Tablets

Amino acid tablets are formulated with a unique blend of protein sources to provide you with the essential and non-essential amino acids your growing muscles have been craving. Not only do Challenger Nutrition amino acid tabs fuel the muscles you’re building, but these natural occurring sources of proteins also provide you with a better pump, heightened mental alertness, and less muscle soreness after your workouts. This is the perfect product to try if you have a busy schedule with no time to mix drinks. It’s also ideal for individuals who travel a lot and don’t want to carry around heavy containers or risk leakage in luggage.

Amino Acid Powder

Like many types of supplements, amino acids also come in powder form to repair and build muscle tissues. The easiest way to use this type of powder supplement is to mix the recommended dosage with water, juice, or your favorite beverage. This is best done on an empty stomach before and after workouts. Powder is a good choice if you have trouble swallowing pills or have gotten comfortable with using other supplement powders like whey protein or whey isolate.

Choosing an Amino Acid Supplement

Ultimately, the decision of which form of amino acid supplement is a personal one that you must make for yourself. But it doesn’t hurt to try all three varieties to see which one fits into your training lifestyle best. The important thing is to get your amino acids in one way or another through healthy foods and high-quality supplements you can trust. Stock up today to start feeling the difference in your performance!