What are amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body referred to as?

Amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body are referred to as essential amino acids. The body requires these amino acids for various functions, including protein synthesis, but it cannot produce them on its own. Therefore, they must be obtained through the diet. Essential amino acids play a critical role in maintaining overall health, supporting muscle growth and repair, and ensuring proper functioning of various biological processes.

In contrast, non-essential amino acids can be synthesized by the body and do not need to be acquired through food sources. Conditional amino acids, while generally categorized as non-essential, may become essential during times of stress or illness when the body cannot produce enough of them. Branched-chain amino acids are a specific group of amino acids that include leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which are primarily known for their importance in muscle metabolism and recovery but are still part of the essential and non-essential categories based on their synthesis capability.