BCAA: branched-chain amino acids Leucine-Isoleucine-Valine
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What Are BCAA
Branched-chain amino acids, known as BCAA, comprise three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine and valine. They are called "branched-chain" because of their chemical structure and make up about 35% of the amino acids in skeletal muscle. Since the human body cannot synthesise them on its own, they must be obtained through diet or supplements.
What They Are ForBCAA perform several important functions:
It is advisable to consult a doctor before starting to take BCAA, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
Branched-chain amino acids, known as BCAA, comprise three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine and valine. They are called "branched-chain" because of their chemical structure and make up about 35% of the amino acids in skeletal muscle. Since the human body cannot synthesise them on its own, they must be obtained through diet or supplements.
What They Are ForBCAA perform several important functions:
- Muscle protein synthesis: leucine indirectly stimulates muscle growth.
- Reduced fatigue: they may lower serotonin production during exercise, delaying the feeling of tiredness.
- Muscle recovery: they support the repair of damaged tissue after intense training.
- Support in clinical conditions: useful in cases of liver disease, ALS and muscle wasting in cancer patients.
- Before training: to improve endurance and prevent muscle catabolism.
- During training: to maintain energy levels and reduce fatigue.
- After training: to speed up recovery and support protein synthesis.
- Common side effects: fatigue, loss of coordination, gastrointestinal disorders.
- Contraindications: kidney disease, ALS, chronic alcoholism, hypoglycaemia in children and scheduled surgery.
- Drug interactions: they may interfere with medicines.
It is advisable to consult a doctor before starting to take BCAA, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
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