Black Walnuts: Complete Amino Acid Profile

Black Walnuts ‐ Amino Acids List

Introduction

Black walnuts (Juglans nigra) are a type of nut native to North America, found growing in wooded areas and river valleys. Since the time of early settlers, they have been highly prized for their unique earthy flavor as well as their medicinal properties. Rich in a variety of essential micronutrients, Black walnuts are a valuable addition to any health-conscious diet. One of the primary sources of major nutrition present in Black walnuts is amino acids. Amino acids are often referred to as “the building blocks of life” because of their importance in numerous physiological processes. In this paper we will discuss these important dietary components by examining the composition of amino acids found in Black walnuts and exploring how these compounds contribute to our overall health.

Amino Acids Found in Black Walnuts

In order to understand the dietary value of Black walnuts it is necessary to identify the types of amino acids which can be obtained from eating them. These nitrogen-containing molecules play key roles in metabolic pathways, tissue growth and repair, endocrine regulation, mitochondrial energy production, and more [1]. A total of 21 distinct amino acids have been categorized as essential due to their necessity in human physiology [2]. These include nine nonpolar aliphatic acids (alanine, glycine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, phenylalanine, valine, proline, and threonine), one cationic acidic acid (arginine), one sulfur-containing amino acid (cysteine/cystine), five aromatic acids (tryptophan, tyrosine, histidine, lysine, aspartate/asparagine), and six polar uncharged acids (serine, glutamine/glutamate, aspartate/asparagine). Of these 20 standard amino acids, Black walnuts contain 17, with cysteine absent in detectable quantity. Notably, trace amounts of taurine were identified in a study conducted on Black walnut phytosterols [3].

Apart from their wide range of standard amino acids, Black walnuts also contain less common forms such as gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) and other rare derivatives like n-methylisoleucine and 4-hydroxyproline. All 50 naturally occurring amino acids have been detected in the water-insoluble fraction of two genomic studies performed on J. nigra[4][5], although some show up at levels too low to register. Interestingly, concentrations of most of these standard amino acids tend to increase significantly once Nuts are shelled – possibly suggesting that the degradation process itself liberates certain otherwise bound chemical structures [6].

Health Benefits of Consuming Black Walnuts

Beyond their delicious taste, there are numerous reasons why individuals should consider making Black walnuts part of their regular diet. Although further research is required to elucidate each individual compound's effect, ingesting foods rich in amino acids boasts innumerable benefits. The wealth of organic proteins contained within these nuts helps promote healthy skin, nails, hormones, enzymes, muscles and joints. As an abundant source of antioxidants, gamelysines ? a class of tannins specifically present in Black walnuts ? help rid body cells of free radicals while boosting immune system functions. This may protect against potential degenerative conditions caused by oxidative stress, especially those pertaining to mental deterioration [7]. Additionally, the abundance of proteinogenic amino acids provide necessary precursors for neurotransmitter synthesis and neural development, allowing GABA-mediated muscle relaxation and improving communication between nerve synapses leading to better focus and tranquility [8][9].

Conclusion

As demonstrated above, Black walnuts are an excellent source of vital nutrients and disease-preventive compounds, boasting a broad palette of amino acids. Black walnut flesh contains 16 out of the 21 essential amino acids along with numerous lesser-known varieties. Many of these compounds confer great benefits for various bodily systems, providing powerful antioxidative protection, improved brain functioning, enhanced musculoskeletal support, and more. Furthermore, the progressive unlocking of certain amino acids during the shelling process could enable related mechanisms to operate even more efficiently. Due to all these advantages, incorporating Black walnuts into one’s dietary routine could prove to be hugely beneficial, both short-term and long-term.