Branched chain amino acid (BCAA) supplements have been getting a lot of buzz in the fitness industry lately. It has been commonly used by athletes, and even by individuals simply looking to lose some weight. But what are BCAAs? How does it differ from other supplements like whey?
What are branched chain amino acids?
Amino acids are considered the simplified form of protein. And as we all know, protein is a necessity in order to build muscles. There are nine essential amino acids that we could get from food and supplements that we eat. Three of these nine essential amino acids are considered branched chain amino acids.
So why exactly do you want to invest on BCAA supplements? Here are some reasons why you would want to invest on BCAA supplementation.
Anti-catabolic
It is a common scenario wherein you are on a diet and you not only lose your fats, but also your muscles. BCAA supplementation prevents this scenario. Metabolized directly into the skeletal muscle, the branched chain amino acids are known to promote anabolic hormone profile. BCAA is also responsible for reducing the components of protein breakdown pathway. It becomes useful especially if you are the type who does a lot of cardio exercises.
Additional strength
Another reason why you should invest on BCAAs is the fact that you can have additional strength when taking this supplement. That means additional push when you needed it the most. In fact, according to fitness experts, taking BCAA as a pre-workout supplement gives you that additional strength that you need to finish your workout.
How does this take place? For one, it decreases the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter associated with fatigue.
Also, branched chain amino acids are easily absorbed in the skeletal muscles. So does it mean that you should be taking more whey with BCAAs? Not necessarily correct. BCAAs found in whey powders are peptide bound, which means it still takes hours before it gets into your system. Standalone BCAA supplements are easily absorbed as it bypasses the liver.
Maximizes your workouts
If you’ll ask a bunch of people in a gym why they workout, a common answer is to see themselves bulk up. How exactly do you develop mass? You have to take into account the activities that you do, not to mention the nutrition and the supplements that you take.
Whey is usually a good option when you workout. But other than whey and protein rich meals, it also helps if you include BCAAs to get the most results from your workouts.
Perfect for athletes
Athletes are sometimes required to train twice or even thrice a day. Also, a lot of them need to lose weight. Athletes such as boxers and wrestlers need to constantly cut weight before they get to compete. With the help of branched chain amino acids, it is possible for them to do their job easier.
BCAA supplementation when coupled with proper nutrition could help build muscles, cut fats and initiate faster recovery. Not to mention that athletes will can avoid scenarios wherein they gave up mentally.
Conclusion
If you plan on transforming your body, or optimizing your athletic performance, it is crucial to take the right type of supplement. Without the right type of supplement, the benefits from your workouts could easily be lost.
Protein is now a hot commodity in the fitness industry. However, what BCAA can bring to the table could even maximize the protein supplements that you are taking. BCAA not only creates an anabolic environment, it also help you get in the right mindset.
