The Benefits of Branched-Chain Amino Acids
Most people are familiar with the basic amino acids, but there is a special class of amino acids known as the branched-chain amino acids, or BCAAs. These amino acids are essential, which means that the body cannot make them on its own and they must be obtained through diet or supplementation. The three BCAAs are leucine, isoleucine, and valine.
BCAAs are important for muscle protein synthesis and can help to preserve existing muscle tissue.* In addition, BCAAs can support the recovery process by promoting the normal repair processes that take place after exertion.* BCAAs also play an important role in the maintenance of proper immune system function and the support of healthy aging.*
How BCAAs Work
BCAAs stimulate muscle protein synthesis by activating a key regulator of cell growth and proliferation called mTORC1. mTORC1 plays an important role in cell growth, survival, proliferation, and protein synthesis. In other words, mTORC1 is responsible for helping cells to grow and develop properly. Leucine is the BCAA that is most effective at stimulating mTORC1 activity.*
BCAAs also help to preserve existing muscle tissue by reducing the amount of exercise-induced protein breakdown. When you exercise, your muscles break down slightly in order to repair and rebuild themselves. This process is known as muscle protein turnover. Muscle protein turnover is necessary for proper muscle growth and development, but too much exercise-induced protein breakdown can lead to muscle loss.* Fortunately, BCAA supplementation has been shown to reduce exercise-induced protein breakdown.*
Finally, BCAAs can support recovery by promoting the normal repair processes that take place after physical exertion. When you exercise, your muscles sustain microtrauma (tiny tears). In order for your muscles to repair this microtrauma and become stronger, they must undergo a process known as muscle protein synthesis.* BCAA supplementation has been shown to increase rates of muscle protein synthesis following exercise.*
In Summary:
Overall, BCAAs offer a wide range of benefits that can be helpful for both athletes and non-athletes alike. If you are looking for a way to support your exercise performance and recovery, as well as promote healthy aging and immunity, then consider adding a BCAA supplement to your daily routine. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Suggested Usage:Â Take 4 capsules twice daily before meals or exercise.
Store in a cool, dry, dark place after opening.
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 4 Veg Capsules
Servings Per Container: 30
Description Amount per Serving % Daily Value
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine) 2.6 g (2,600 mg)
**Daily Value not established.
Other Ingredients: Hypromellose (cellulose capsule) and Stearic Acid (vegetable source).
Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish or tree nut ingredients. Produced in a GMP facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.
Caution: For adults only. Consult physician if pregnant/nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.
Typical Branched-Chain Amino Acid composition (2:1:1 approximate ratio) (per 4 capsule serving): L-Leucine (1,170 – 1,400 mg), L-Isoleucine (570 – 700 mg), L-Valine (570 – 700 mg)
NOW® Branched-Chain Amino Acids are pharmaceutical grade.
Natural color variation may occur in this product.
Made and quality tested in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.
Store in a cool, dry, dark place after opening.
