11 Benefits of Liquid Aminos, Plus Potential Downsides

1. Source of amino acids

Amino acids are the primary building blocks of proteins that help with muscle growth and hormone production, as well as the synthesis of neurotransmitters. 

Liquid aminos contain both essential and nonessential amino acids, although the types and amounts may vary from product to product.

Liquid aminos are an excellent source of amino acids for vegans, who often lack amino acids that are predominantly found in meat and dairy. 

2. Less sodium

Liquid aminos contain less sodium than soy sauce, meaning you can use them as a milder and healthier alternative for soy sauce if you are on a low-sodium diet. 

3. Gluten-free

If you have a gluten-related disorder or on a gluten-free diet liquid aminos are a great choice. This is because they are naturally gluten-free, as they are made from hydrolyzed soybeans and water.

4. Keto-friendly

Liquid aminos are carb-free and thus keto-friendly. They also do not contain ingredients such as sugar, artificial sweeteners, and highly processed oils.

5. Paleo-friendly

If you are following a paleo diet, liquid aminos made from coconut sap are an excellent substitute for soy sauce because coconuts are paleo-friendly and gluten-free

6. Free of monosodium glutamate (MSG)

People who are sensitive to MSG additives can use liquid aminos since they are free of MSG.

7. Free of sodium benzoate

Because liquid aminos contain no chemical preservatives, they may be beneficial for people who are sensitive to sodium benzoate or wish to avoid them in their diet.

8. Good for weight loss

Liquid aminos naturally include glutamate, which activates an umami flavor in foods, often described as meaty or savory. According to studies, eating foods that have an umami flavor can help curb hunger. Liquid aminos are also low in calories, meaning you can use them to season your meals without adding too much to your calorie intake.

9. May promote hair growth

Including a sufficient quantity of liquid aminos in your diet can increase the amount of amino acids in your body necessary for hair growth and repair.

10. May improve athletic performance

Athletes who want to boost their exercise performance and reduce muscle breakdown following an intense workout may benefit from using liquid aminos. Studies report that liquid amino supplementation may help athletes who were on a calorie-restricted diet to maintain lean body mass. Amino acids also aid in the development and maintenance of muscles.

11. Versatile

Liquid aminos are easy to incorporate into your diet. You can try stirring them into soups and stews, pouring them over roasted vegetables, adding them to marinades, or using them to season cauliflower rice.

Although consuming a moderate amount of liquid aminos on a daily basis is not harmful, you should avoid excessive amounts due to the following reasons:

• Sodium content: While lower in sodium content than soy sauce, liquid aminos still contain a fairly significant amount of sodium. If you have kidney disease, high blood pressure, or cancer, you may need to avoid or limit your consumption.
• Possible allergic reactions: If you are allergic to soy, your body may respond negatively to liquid aminos and you should opt for coconut-based aminos instead.
• Cost: Liquid aminos are often more expensive than soy sauce.