What are “BCAAs”?
Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) are the "building blocks" of protein. Of these, nine are considered essential. And of the essential amino acids, three account for as much as 33% of muscle tissue – leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Remember those three.
When we say a substance is “essential” for the body, it means that without it, you will die. Essential amino acids are therefore ones we cannot survive without.
Branched Chain Amino Acids are among the most beneficial and effective supplements for your overall health, but also for any sports nutrition program. BCAAs make up 35% of your muscle mass and must be present for molecular growth and development to take place. BCAAs (especially leucine) stimulate protein synthesis, and give indications they do so to a greater extent than a normal protein on its own. BCAAs also increase synthesis of the cellular machinery responsible for carrying out the process of protein synthesis.
In the sports science world, where claims are easily made and infrequently met, BCAAs are showing their mettle by delivering the goods for those looking for potent workout recovery, either from fatigue or or muscle damage. [1]