FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions.

Amino Acid Science Ltd pioneered this technique and evidence-based algorithm to undertake human amino acid profiling that enables a comprehensive physical, mental and nutritional check-up and thereby providing personalized supplementation tailored to the needs of an individual.

MedCity, UK endorsed this business as an innovation in Digital Health in 2020.

Amino acid analysis is a laboratory technique used to analyze the types and quantities of amino acids present in blood sample. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and play critical roles in a wide range of biological processes, including the synthesis of proteins, neurotransmitters, and other molecules.

No, Amino Acid Analysis is not a new method. It has been a well-established and widely used method in biochemistry and nutrition research for many years. For the past 40 years, the HPLC and LC MS/MS methods have been used to accurately measure the levels of amino acids and metabolites that play a role in all of the body's functions.

What is new is we developed an amino acid analysis interpretation system that provides an evidence-based assessment of health and nutritional status and supplement recommendation to prevent health risks and improve   physical and mental health.

This system called as AminoCheck was developed by Amino Acid Science Ltd established in Imperial College Innovation Hub, London, based on the studies of Dr. Aydın Duygu. The UK government has recognized Dr. Aydın Duygu as innovator in the field of medical technology and digital health.

AminoCheck analysis is an early warning system for future health problems or undetected diseases. Apart from health status and risks, it clearly reveals which nutrient support we need. So, you don't have to take random supplements.

Amino acid analysis can provide valuable insights into our health status and help guide nutritional and medical interventions to improve health outcomes.

Here are some examples:

  1. Nutritional status: Amino acid analysis can help determine if we are getting enough amino acids from our diet. Essential amino acids are those that the body cannot produce on its own and must be obtained from food sources. A deficiency in amino acids can lead to impaired growth and development, as well as other health problems.
  2. Identification of protein biomarkers: Amino acid analysis can help identify specific amino acids or patterns of amino acids that are associated with certain diseases or conditions. These amino acids can potentially be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis or monitoring of disease progression.
  3. Diagnosis of metabolic disorders: Certain genetic disorders, such as phenylketonuria (PKU) and maple syrup urine disease (MSUD), are characterized by defects in amino acid metabolism. Amino acid analysis can help diagnose these conditions by identifying abnormal levels of specific amino acids in the blood or urine.
  4. Monitoring of disease progression and treatment: Amino acid analysis can be used to monitor disease progression and treatment in conditions such as cancer, liver disease, and kidney disease. Changes in amino acid levels can indicate changes in protein metabolism and overall health status.

The analyses performed for checkup purposes show positive results if there is a disease. Routine checkup controls such as blood tests, urine tests, and physical examinations are used to screen for a wide range of health conditions and assess overall health status. These tests typically measure markers such as cholesterol, blood glucose, liver enzymes, and kidney function.

In contrast, amino acid analysis is a more specialized test that specifically evaluates protein and amino acid metabolism that is related to all biological functions of human beings.

AminoCheck provides information about the types and quantities of amino acids present in a sample, which can be used to diagnose metabolic and psychologic disorders, monitor disease progression, and assess nutritional status.

Amino acids play a role in all of our body's functions. Even a deficiency or imbalance in a single amino acid affects the functions of other amino acids. Many factors, such as intense stress, heavy exercise, unbalanced nutrition, and sadness, can cause a decrease or imbalance in amino acid levels. Therefore, by conducting an AminoCheck analysis it is possible to obtain information about the causes of many conditions from insomnia to changes in appetite, from hair loss to depression.

Almost all physical and mental problems cause significant changes in amino acid levels before symptoms appear. By examining special patterns, AminoCheck can predict and report many diseases such as cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, diabetes, obesity, depression, Alzheimer's disease, etc. years before they develop

By measuring the levels of various amino acids in a blood sample and generating specific arithmetic correlations AminoCheck identifies patterns that are associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and heart diseases.

When the sugar level in our blood exceeds normal limits type2 diabetes is diagnosed.  Numerous studies have found that changes in amino acid metabolism are associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Specifically, higher levels of certain amino acids, such as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), glutamic acid, alanine etc. have been linked to an increased risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and coronary heart diseases.  Clinical studies have shown that blood levels of amino acids change almost 10 years before the development of these conditions.

Vitamins and minerals can be considered as helpers for amino acid metabolism. The high or low level of an amino acid in the blood is associated with an increased or decreased need for vitamins or minerals specific for that amino acid.

For example, low levels of the amino acid methionine may indicate a deficiency in folic acid or vitamin B12, while high levels of the amino acid homocysteine may indicate a deficiency in vitamin B6, vitamin B12, or folate. The conversion of phenylalanine to tyrosine requires iron. The conversion of cysteine to taurine requires vitamin B6. It is possible to determine which vitamins and minerals are needed by looking at the levels of amino acids through amino acid analysis.

If possible, it is very useful to have it done when you are healthy. With this analysis, we can best understand where your health is going and how your nutrition is. Even if you already have a disease, amino acid analysis is helpful to understand how it progresses.

Our genes use 20 different amino acids to synthesize proteins that sustain all life functions, and we are almost required to consume half of these amino acids through our diets. Therefore, AminoCheck analysis can be recommended for all age groups, as it reveals health risks, nutritional status, and how much vital nutrients such as amino acids, vitamins, and minerals are needed.

Anyone who is constantly fatigued, weak, in pain, unhappy, experiencing sexual problems, unable to achieve the desired performance, unable to control their appetite or has no appetite, frequently ill, or feels that they are rapidly aging, should get the analysis, even if all other analyses show normal results.

AminoCheck analysis evaluates the amino acids using advanced modern laboratory methods. Everyone's amino acid profile is unique and does not change significantly over a short period. Therefore, the analysis accurately reflects your amino acid profile.

Interpretation of amino acid analysis results also requires expertise and experience in amino acid metabolism and related fields.  In summary, amino acid analysis provides reliable and accurate information about an individual's amino acid levels and can be a valuable tool for personalized nutrition and healthcare interventions.

Yes, the content of highly consumed foods eaten before the analysis can affect the results of amino acid analysis. To minimize the potential impact of dietary intake on amino acid analysis results, it is recommended an overnight fasting for at least 8 hours before the analysis. This helps to ensure that the amino acid levels measured in the analysis are reflective of an individual's baseline amino acid status, rather than a temporary fluctuation due to recent dietary intake.

The amino acid analysis is performed by taking a blood sample from a vein. It is ideal to take the sample after an overnight eight-hour fasting.

It is important to note that amino acid analysis requires specialized laboratory equipment and trained personnel to perform the analysis and interpret the results.

We use plasma amino acid profiling performed by Liquid Chromatography with Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) techniques.

After the analysis, the levels of all your amino acids and many metabolites and several amino acid indices (ratios of amino acids to each other) related to your health status will be presented to you in a report. This report will include your current health status, potential risks for the future, and recommendations for amino acids, vitamins, and mineral supplements that you may need.

For the purposes of health risk assessment, it can be done at intervals of up to three to four months. Ideally, an annual analysis will suffice.

However, if you are under supplementation or medical intervention for a specific reason such as obesity, depression, etc., it should be repeated every three to four months to monitor health progress.

If you are under amino acid supplementation, it can be repeated two to three months later to adjust the new amino acid formula."

  1. Infants and children: Amino acid analysis can be recommended for infants and children who are being screened for metabolic disorders, autism, attention deficiency, hyperactivity and growth retardation and neurological developmental delay.
  1. Individuals with cardio metabolic disorders (insulin resistance, type2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, elevated lipids).
  2. Individuals with liver or kidney disease
  3. Obesity and weight control
  4. Individuals with nutritional deficiencies
  5. Management of the process after bariatric and metabolic surgery
  6. Individuals with mood disorders
  7. Insomnia
  8. Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease
  9. Postpartum depression
  10. Lactation and postpartum nutrition
  11. Sexual health: Erectile dysfunction/Libido loss
  12. Strengthening the immune system
  13. Muscle wasting, prolonged bed rest, cachexia, frailty
  14. Anti-aging purposes:  By aging the ability of body to synthesize and absorb amino acids decreases. Supplementing with amino acids, particularly essential amino acids, can help prevent age-related muscle loss, support healthy aging, and improve overall health.  Specific amino acids improve skin, hair and nail health.
  15. Vegetarian or vegan dieters: Plant-based diets may be low in certain amino acids, particularly essential amino acids, and may require supplementation to ensure adequate intake.
  16. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts: Amino acid analysis can provide information about muscle metabolism, and may be recommended for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who are interested in optimizing their performance or identifying potential imbalances or deficiencies in their amino acid profiles.

Amino acid supplements are beneficial for individuals who are not getting enough amino acids from their diet, have increased amino acid needs due to certain health conditions or lifestyle factors, or have an amino acid imbalance that can affect their health.

Researches show that even people who have a balanced diet may have amino acid imbalances. The widespread use of industrial foods, current lifestyle, and environmental effects are the most important reasons for this. The need for amino acids increases during long-term stress, illness, diets, increased mental and physical activities, and postpartum periods.

Here are some specific reasons why someone might need amino acid supplements:

  1. Inadequate dietary intake: If an individual's diet is lacking in certain amino acids, such as those found in plant-based diets, they may need to supplement to ensure they are getting all the essential amino acids they need.
  2. Increased protein needs: Individuals who engage in intense physical activity or are recovering from an injury or illness may require higher amounts of amino acids to support muscle growth and repair.
  3. Certain health conditions: Some health conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or gastrointestinal disorders, mental stress may impair the body's ability to produce or absorb certain amino acids or increase consumption of certain amino acid making supplementation necessary.
  4. Amino acid imbalances: An imbalance in amino acids can affect overall health and lead to various health issues. Supplementing with specific amino acids can help correct these imbalances and support optimal health.

It's important to note that while amino acid supplements can be beneficial for certain individuals, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen.

Without an amino acid analysis individual amino acid supplementation generally cannot help or even may harm.

The AminoCheck system is our innovative supplementation approach. Evidence-based preventive and personalized free-form amino acid supplements are formulated via our amino acid analyzer software and manufactured in our lab.

In this system the content of amino acid supplements is determined by processing the amino acid profile of the individual's blood sample. Based on the results of the amino acid analysis, a personalized amino acid supplement formula is created to provide the specific amino acids that are needed by the individual.

The process of determining the content of amino acid supplements typically involves the following steps:

  1. Collection of samples: Samples of blood are collected from the individual and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
  2. Amino acid analysis: The laboratory conducts an amino acid analysis on the samples, which involves separating and quantifying the different amino acids present.
  3. Personalized supplement formulation: Based on the results of the amino acid analysis, a personalized supplement formula is created that provides the specific amino acids needed by the individual.
  4. Quality control and production: The supplement formula is produced under strict quality control measures to ensure consistency and purity.

Overall, the content of amino acid supplements is determined through a scientific and analytical process that takes into account the individual's unique amino acid needs.

Amino Acid Science Ltd, UK, which works on analysis-based amino acid supplements also considers the World Health Organization's amino acid supplement recommendations and data obtained from scientific studies. All data is reviewed by a specialist medical doctor.

Currently, the increased use of various vitamins, minerals, or other supplements is not based on any analysis and is completely arbitrary. However, these standardized dietary supplements are not the exact amount that everyone needs, as some may need less or more. This is because everyone's genetics, biochemistry, nutrition, and lifestyle are different from each other.

  1. Personalized dosing: Tailor-made amino acid supplements are formulated based on an individual's unique amino acid profile, allowing for personalized dosing that is tailored to their specific needs. This can help ensure that individuals are getting the right amounts of the amino acids they need without over- or under-supplementing.
  2. Specific amino acid combinations: Tailor-made amino acid supplements can be formulated to target specific health concerns or goals by combining the amino acids known to be most effective for addressing those issues. For example, a supplement designed to support muscle growth and recovery may contain higher levels of certain amino acids, such as leucine and lysine, while a supplement designed to support cognitive function may contain higher levels of other amino acids, such as tyrosine and tryptophan.
  3. High-quality ingredients: Tailor-made amino acid supplements are typically made with high-quality ingredients that are carefully selected and tested for purity and potency. This can help ensure that individuals are getting the highest-quality supplements possible.
  4. Increased absorption and bioavailability: Analysis-based amino acid supplements can be formulated to improve the absorption and utilization of the amino acids, making them more effective than other supplements on the market. This can be achieved by combining certain amino acids with specific cofactors or by using advanced delivery systems that enhance absorption.   In contrast, individual amino acids on the market can do harm by blocking the absorption or tissue distribution of a competing amino acid.
  5. Evidence-based: Analysis-based amino acid supplements are formulated based on scientific evidence and clinical experience, ensuring that the supplements are safe, effective, and supported by research.

Overall, tailor-made amino acid supplements are a potentially the most effective options for individuals looking to support their health and well-being.

There are some differences between amino acid supplements and protein-containing foods. Only animal originated foods are complete proteins and contain all or most of the amino acids needed by the body. Amino acids are found as bounded chains in protein sources and need to be digested in the gastrointestinal tract.   We do not know how much of these proteins can be digested and absorbed as free form amino acids into the bloodstream because it depends on the individual digestion system and the properties of the food.

On the other hand, amino acid supplements can target specific amino acids that a person may be deficient in or not getting enough of, and therefore provide a more personalized approach.  Tailored amino acids are in free forms. That means it does not require digestion. Therefore, the utilization ratio of free form amino acids is %100.

However, consuming adequate amounts of amino acids is generally an important part of a healthy diet, and consuming protein-containing foods is important as well. Therefore, while taking amino acid supplements, it is important to focus on the variety of protein sources to have a healthy diet.

Yes, amino acid supplements are different from protein supplements. Protein supplements contain a combination of amino acids, whereas amino acid supplements contain individual amino acids. Protein supplements may be used to increase protein intake, while amino acid supplements are used to address specific amino acid deficiencies or to support various physiological processes that require specific amino acids.

Additionally, protein supplements often contain other macronutrients such as carbohydrates and fats, while amino acid supplements are typically pure amino acids without added macronutrients.

Amino acid supplements are prepared according to personal needs identified through blood analysis. The free form amino acids contained in our amino acid supplements are used quickly where needed without the need for additional metabolic processes and digestion. Protein mixtures are subject to digestion and can be considered as a protein rich food.  Therefore, it cannot target any specific health issues.

The time it takes to see visible results after taking amino acid supplements can vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated. In some cases, such as when correcting a deficiency or addressing a specific health issue such as mood problems, results may be noticeable within a few days or weeks. In other cases, such as building muscle or improving athletic performance, or effects on the skin, it may take several weeks or months to see visible changes.

No. Amino acid supplements are a form of nutritional support and do not have an addictive effect.

No. Amino acid supplements are a form of nutritional support and do not have an addictive effect.

In high dose or prolonged usage amino acid supplements can interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to a healthcare professional before taking them.

If the given dosage is tailored according to your blood amino acid levels such as AminoCheck supplements will not interact with your existing medications. However, we recommend leaving a 2-hour interval between any kind of supplement and medication.

Tailored amino acid supplements are safe for children and pregnant women.  However, individual usage of certain amino acids without analysis may harm. It would be beneficial to inform your doctor about its use in pregnant women.

AminoCheck  meets the increasing need in the postpartum period and is a good solution to postpartum depression.

amino acids and most of vitamins and minerals except vitamin D, iron and calcium. If an individual has deficiency with such nutrients a healthcare professional may recommend taking a vitamin D or iron supplement in addition to amino acid supplements.  

No. None of the amino supplement contents are on the doping list. Using personalized products based on analysis for athletes is the most effective and safest way to improve athletic performance.

The duration of use for amino acid supplements can vary depending on the individual's needs and health goals. Continuous amino acid intake is beneficial during regular physical exercise. Similarly, taking amino acid supplements when under stress can also help. They can also be used for anti-aging purposes for a long time. Short-term use can also be beneficial for rapid recovery during injury and recovery periods.

It is recommended that AminoCheck supplements be re-evaluated with a second analysis after three months of use. Usually, three or six months of use is sufficient for the desired effect. They can be reused after a break if necessary.

Although it depends on the goals, three or six months of use is usually sufficient for the desired effect. They can be used for a long time or, if necessary, can be reused after a break.

The aim of AminoCheck supplements is thoroughly customizing the blend according to your requirements and your health condition. AminoCheck is a unique supplement that has proven preventive effects and treatment potential.

AminoCheck doses are determined according to your blood amino acid analysis.

All amino acids blended in AminoCheck are pharmaceutical grade. Therefore, they have the highest purity. The blending of amino acids is done in a clean room in the technopark, which means any contamination is avoided.

Adjustment of the amino acid dose is made according to new amino acid analysis.

If personalized amino acid supplements are prepared according to the amino acid analysis of an individual, then it is really personalized and no adverse effects are expected. Potential side effects may only be gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea from the flavors or aromas of the mixtures.

Shelf life of AminoCheck supplements is three months. An opened AminoCheck box is advised to be consumed in two months. Box should be stored in a dry place and below 25°C.

Doses of AminoCheck supplements are determined based on individual amino acid analysis. So, they are in optimal dosage. However, health professionals' advice can be taken into account if they are trained in amino acid supplements. Especially you can take the advice of AminoCheck enrolled clinicians.