Amino Acids & BCAA

Why take amino acids

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. In sports nutrition they are used to support recovery, during long workouts and on a diet, when calories are low but you want to keep your muscle.

BCAA, EAA and glutamine: what is the difference

• BCAA (leucine, isoleucine and valine in a 2:1:1 or 4:1:1 ratio): three branched-chain amino acids. Easy to sip during training and available in many flavours.
• EAA: all nine essential amino acids, including BCAAs. A more complete profile than BCAA alone.
• Glutamine: a non-essential amino acid often added during periods of heavy training.

Who benefits most

• People who train fasted or for longer than an hour.
• Anyone on a calorie deficit.
• Those who find a protein shake too heavy during training: amino drinks are lighter and refreshing.

Good to know: if your diet already has enough protein, amino acids are more about comfort than a big boost in results. Start with protein powder and add BCAA or EAA later.