How many of the 20 amino acids can the body create on its own?

The body can synthesize 12 out of the 20 standard amino acids, which classifies them as nonessential amino acids. These amino acids can be produced by the body through various biochemical processes, utilizing different substrates and metabolic pathways, which means it's not necessary to obtain them directly from the diet. The remaining amino acids, known as essential amino acids, must be acquired through food sources, as the body cannot produce them. This distinction between essential and nonessential amino acids is fundamental in nutrition and biology, emphasizing the body's ability to manufacture certain building blocks while relying on dietary intake for others.