BCAA Supplements

Branched-chain amino acids or BCAA supplements are a kind of sports nutrition supplement that a number of bodybuilders and athletes include in their batteries to prevent the shrinking of the size and muscle strength due to the synthesis of muscle protein reduced and because of the exercise-induced muscle breakdown. Branched-chain amino acids help your body in the healing process of damaged tissues, in speeding the recovery and protection of your muscle tissue catabolism when you exercise.

They are composed of essential amino acids leucine, isoleucine and valine and perform important functions in protein synthesis and energy production. Leucine is necessary for the healing of wounds of skin and bones and muscles preserved. Isoleucine aid in boosting energy and is necessary in the formation of hemoglobin. Valine promote or maintain the balance of nitrogen, which is necessary for muscle development. BCAA represent 35-40 percent of the essential amino acids of the protein in the body and 14 percent of the total amino acids in skeletal muscle.

The effects of BCAA supplements in the treatment of liver failure and catabolic disease states have been investigated in numerous studies. The results have varied widely. It has also been studied for its effects in enhancing physical performance. It was observed that plasma leucine levels decreased significantly after aerobic exercise and anaerobic strength as a result of the high breakdown of BCAA in muscle tissue. Taking BCAA supplements, the decline in plasma BCAA induced by exercise is avoided and increases the level of BCAA in muscle. Unlike other amino acids, BCAA is not easily degraded in the liver. Taking BCAA supplements increases BCAA levels in blood and other tissues. If the increase in tissue concentration rises to levels beyond the usual dose, protein synthesis is stimulated. The rising level of BCAA also raises the production of other amino acids like glutamine.

Approximately 15-20 percent of the protein we consume is BCAA. We get them from food sources such as dairy products and red meat. However, if you’re a bodybuilder, these sources may not be enough to help you build muscle mass, thus requiring you to take the BCAA supplements.