Evidence supporting the use of: Amino Acid (unspecified)
For the health condition: Anorexia
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Amino acids have some scientific support for use in the management of anorexia, particularly in the context of anorexia nervosa and other conditions characterized by reduced appetite or malnutrition. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are essential for maintaining muscle mass, supporting immune function, and enabling neurotransmitter synthesis. In cases of anorexia (both as a symptom and as the eating disorder anorexia nervosa), patients often experience protein-energy malnutrition, and their dietary intake is insufficient to meet metabolic needs. Supplementation of amino acids, either individually or as part of a balanced medical food, can help restore nitrogen balance and promote recovery of lean body mass.
Some clinical guidelines and reviews recommend amino acid supplementation as part of comprehensive nutritional rehabilitation for individuals with anorexia nervosa, especially during the refeeding phase. While specific amino acid formulations (e.g., branched-chain amino acids, glutamine) have been studied, there is also use of mixed or "unspecified" amino acid supplements to ensure coverage of all essential amino acids. However, the evidence base is moderate: most studies focus on overall protein or energy supplementation rather than isolated amino acids, and few large randomized controlled trials have tested amino acid supplementation alone for anorexia. Nonetheless, the physiological rationale and clinical experience provide a reasonable basis for this intervention.
In summary, there is scientific rationale and moderate clinical evidence for the use of amino acids in supporting nutritional status in individuals with anorexia, but more high-quality research is needed to define the optimal formulations and patient populations.
Other health conditions supported by Amino Acid (unspecified)
AnorexiaAthletic and Exercise Aids
Body Building
Burns and Scalds
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Convalescence
Depression
Energy (lack of)
Hair (loss or thinning)
Liver Detoxification
Muscle Tone (lack of)
Wasting
