What are the BCAA Benefits? BCAAs, short for branched-chain amino acids, have become a hot topic in the bodybuilding world, but what are they and what can they do for you? Amino Acids are essentially the building blocks for protein, which help to maintain muscle mass and prevent muscle tissue tearing. There are nine essential amino acids, and they are needed for us to function normally. Of these, three are BCAAs; They are: valine, leucine and isoleucine and they make up around 35% of our muscle mass which is why the BCAA benefits can show considerable improvements to muscle growth. Trigger protein synthesis Protein synthesis is a term used to describe muscle growth. BCAAs (especially leucine) stimulate muscle synthesis, and it is suggested that it does so more than full proteins. They may also increase the capacity for protein synthesis by stimulating the cellular machinery responsible for carrying out the process of protein synthesis. Supplementing with BCAAs can prevent your body going into a negative nitrogen balance after intense exercise, helping you to make a faster recovery. Supply muscle energy They also stimulate insulin production, the anabolic hormone. Insulin is essential for energy for the body, as it allows both blood sugar and amino acids to be utilised by the muscles. Supplying the muscles with “fuel” means that they can perform better and won’t tire as easily. Not to be used as a substitute for a balanced and varied diet, for more information check out what to eat before a workout and our take on what the what to eat post workout as well to complement the Benefits that BCAAs can provide. Preserve lean mass Our bodies are put into catabolic condition when we do intense weight training, where our glycine stores are depleted. BCAAs are there to act as an energy source, preventing muscle breakdown. This can allow you to get “ripped” or lose weight whilst decreasing the amount of muscle lost. In a study on rats, BCAAs were better at preventing muscle atrophy than the placebo group. Maintain muscle mass as you age: BCAAs may be beneficial for people who have hit a plateau in their gains due to age. When you turn 35, protein synthes
