WHY YOU NEED BRANCHED CHAIN AMINO ACIDS (BCAA)

WHY YOU NEED BRANCHED CHAIN AMINO ACIDS (BCAA)

If you consider yourself to be a part of the fitness or body building community, there’s a good chance that you’ve heard of branched chain amino acids (BCAA).  However, maybe you don’t know exactly what it is, or what it does. Here’s some insight as to what it consists of, and why you need it. 

BCAA’S, HELP YOU MAINTAIN MUSCLE MASS

There’s certainly evidence in place that suggests that BCAA’s can assist you in gaining muscle mass. But there is an even greater benefit in that it will reduce the body’s need to consume muscle while you’re dieting. While you’re trying to stay lean, but increase your muscle mass, your body might be consuming muscle for increased energy. Which means you’re not helping yourself at all. In fact, there is a good chance you’re only setting yourself further back. 

By a process known as protein synthesis and protein breakdown, your body is drawing upon muscle bound amino acids to provide fuel. By supplementing branched chain amino acids, you’re preventing your body from looking to muscle to generate energy. You’re increasing the protein synthesis, while reducing the protein breakdown.

INCREASED ENERGY, REDUCED FATIGUE

You may have heard of Tryptophan? Well, it is also an amino acid, which can be converted by the body into serotonin. When serotonin levels increase, they make the body believe it’s tired. Which in turn reduces the quality of your workout. Consuming Amino Acids lower the amount of tryptophan that gets released into the brain. Which in turn lessens the amount of serotonin being produced, and allows you to have a longer, more intense workout.

Some say BCAA’s are no more productive than whey protein. However, while whey has its benefits, it doesn’t digest nearly as fast as aminos. and you need far less aminos to achieve the same results. Whatever you choose, do some research, check with the experts, and make the best decision for your body.