BCAA’s otherwise known as branched chain amino acids can be an effective aid for helping to both lose body fat and build muscle. Research has shown that even if you consume an adequate amount of protein you can improve your body composition by consuming at least 5 grams of BCAA’s each day.
Among the many benefits of BCAA’s are the following.
They are the key amino acids for muscle recovery. During exercise you are damaging muscle tissue in order to lose body fat and build muscle your body must repair damaged tissue. Branched Chain Amino Acids are the most important amino acids for muscle recovery.
BCAA’s cause cells to absorb and burn more fatty acids. High levels of BCAA’s in the blood stream usually mean excessive muscle breakdown. In order to stop muscle breakdown the body will adapt by using more fat for fuel. You can trick your body into triggering this process by consuming supplemental BCAA’s.
Significant amounts of BCAA’s also trigger an increase in leptin emission. This is the hormone that tells the body that it has consumed enough energy; it also increases energy burning and helps control appetite.
BCAA’s can be used by both men and women to help improve body composition. BCAA’s can be consumed at almost any time throughout the day. For optimal results try to consume a few grams before or during workouts.
We recommend Intek’s BCAA or Muscle Sports BCAA Revolution.
Dominick Walsh is a blogger for Performance Nutrition and TMRzoo.com and covers all men’s health topics and exercise issues including protein powders, diets, weight loss, weight lifting supplements, fat burners and supplement reviews. Dominick’s columns cover everything you need to know about your pre, during and post workout nutrition.
