BCAA is the shorthand term for Branched Chain Amino Acids, a key word you may have heard tossed around the gym. Whether you are just starting your fitness journey or you have been crushing your gym goals for a long time, adding a BCAA supplement into your regular routine can give you an excellent boost.
What is BCAA?
BCAA are a branched chain of three valuable amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These three components are called “essential amino acids,” because the human body is unable to create them internally – so, you must obtain them from outside nutritional sources. There are 9 essential amino acids in total, but these three make up 40 percent of your daily requirement. This high percentage means that it is incredibly important to get the proper amount to feel and perform at your best levels.
The branched structure allows BCAAs to be easily converted into energy by the body, especially during high-exertion periods like exercise. BCAAs are what makes up around 35 percent of muscle tissue, with higher levels of muscle BCAAs allowing for the prevention of muscle loss.
What are the Main Benefits of BCAA?
When you are considering a BCAA supplement, benefits that you can expect range from muscle building to fat loss and many more in between.
1. Elevated Protein Synthesis Levels
BCAAs can elevate your protein synthesis levels, maximizing your muscle building results. Protein synthesis is critical for the muscle growth process, because it allows your body to process protein in an efficient way to support muscle building and repair. Supplementing your diet with a quality BCAA powder can help your body become a finely-tuned protein synthesis machine. You will see better results at a faster rate. Plus, improved protein synthesis can help prevent excess wear and tear on muscles, so you can avoid being derailed by an injury or frustrating extreme muscle soreness.
2. Increases Metabolism & Burns More Fat Cells
BCAAs have been linked to a higher power for fat burning. If your health goals focus on fat loss, then adding a BCAA to your routine can give you a serious edge. BCAA supplements have been correlated with less body fat and better body composition, which many researchers believe is thanks to the increased metabolism the supplements support. Plus, BCAAs can up your glucose tolerance, which is another benefit for people looking to maximize fat loss.
3. Balanced Hormone Levels
BCAAs support balanced hormone levels, specially during high-intensity workouts. There are two hormones that come into play during an intense workout: cortisol and testosterone. Ultimately, the goal is to maintain low cortisol levels (the “stress hormone”), and higher testosterone levels. This provides the body with ideally balanced conditions for good workout performance and results. BCAAs support this balance, which in turn allows you to workout harder and longer, without running into the issue of fatigue.
Where can I buy BCAA powder?
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It is important that you purchase a high-quality BCAA powder, and stay away from cheaply-made versions that contain artificial additives. BCAA powder ingredients should never include tons of artificial ingredients or sweeteners. If you are working towards changing your body into a finely-tuned and well-oiled machine, it is critical to fuel it with clean, natural foods and supplements.
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Performance Inspired Nutrition has a selection of BCAA supplements made from premium, natural ingredients so you can keep your health goals on track. The Post Workout BCAA is a delicious blend of BCAAs, electrolytes, and glutamine, maximizing your muscle recovery and providing efficient rehydration.
Chose PI Nutrition for an awesome BCAA that will boost your post workout routine, supporting your body and giving you the extra kick you need to go above and beyond your fitness goals.