BCAAS, or Branched-chain amino acids refer to a combination of three essential amino acids; Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine, which are the building blocks for protein synthesis and ultimately muscle tissue. But first of all, what actually is an amino acid? Amino acids are the organic compounds that combine to create different forms of proteins in the body. There are two types of amino acids; essential and non-essential. The major difference between the two being that essential amino acids can not be synthesized by the body and therefore must be provided to the body through the food that we eat. Non-essential amino acids can be synthesized within the body and therefore additional supplementation is not always needed. Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine are all essential amino acids and therefore their supplementation from external sources is paramount, especially for athletes, who break down muscle tissue with each workout. The combination of these three essential amino acids help to repair damaged tissue, promote normal cell growth and protein synthesis. The goal of BCAA supplementation is to provide the body with enough free amino acids, so that muscle cells do not have to be broken down to support the body’s demand during training.
Research studies have also found that BCAA’s help diminish the effect of DOMS, or Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness, from muscle cell breakdown caused from hard training.
Average recommended dosages of Branched Chain Amino Acids range from 20-30g per day and should be included in your pre and during workout shakes. By keeping a consistent baseline dosage of free BCAA’s in your bloodstream, you help prevent your body from needing to breakdown muscle cells to access stored amino acids.
Allmax’s Aminocore is an informed choice product and comes in several great tasting flavours. For getting the most out of the summer’s toughest workouts, BCAAs are a shaker bottle essential!
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