Amino acids are considered the building blocks of life. Chemically amino acids are simple organic compounds containing both a carboxyl (—COOH) and an amino (—NH2) group and are the molecules that combine to form proteins. The body uses amino acids to create its own proteins so that it can grow and develop, repair body tissue, break down food, and perform several other essential functions. Amino acids are also used as a source of energy. There are three group classifications for amino acids, essential amino acids, nonessential amino acids, and conditional amino acids. Essential amino acids are just that, essential because they cannot be made by the human body, they must be derived from sources outside our bodies, like food. Nonessential amino acids are those that our bodies can produce, and it is not necessary to derive them from outside sources, like the food we eat. Conditional amino acids are typically not essential unless you are ill or stressed. It is important to get a balance of essential and nonessential amino acids on a daily basis.