For years, bodybuilders have been looking for the miracle product that would
help them attain their bodybuilding goal quickly and efficiently. In that case, many products have been used with great effect ranging from supplements to steroids. BCAA are some of the most popular supplements that have been in the bodybuilding limelight for many years. Unlike other bodybuilding agents that are known to have serious side effects, BCAAs also referred to as branched-chain amino acids are considered safe. BCAAs comprise three of the most important 20 amino acids that are responsible for muscle growth. The three amino acids, leucine, valine, and isoleucine have a forked outcropping structure that looks like a branch.
The beauty and effectiveness of the BCAAs are in how the body processes them. When you consume these amino acids either as protein or as individual amino acids, they are first broken down in the liver and used as fuel to provide the body with more energy as needed. However, the liver does not use all BCAA in the production of energy. The spare BCAA is sent directly to the muscles where it is used for fuel or for building muscles. Unlike other amino acids, the BCAAs can be used by muscles for fuel directly. This means that during workouts when a bodybuilder needs more energy, the BCAA will be used for fuel while during rest when a bodybuilder does not need energy, the BCAA will be used for building muscle. To fully benefit from BCAAs, bodybuilders are recommended to take them as pre and post workout health supplements.
Why do bodybuilders take BCAA supplements?
Energy Boost
BCAAs are unique muscle building agents that can be readily used by muscles for fuel during intense and longer workouts. To benefit fully, you should take the best BCAA supplements right before you train. The best BCAA supplements will be readily available to your muscles as a direct source of energy for higher energy levels during the workouts. In addition to providing your muscles with fuel, the best BCAA supplements will also help your body fight fatigue by compressing the amino acid tryptophan in the body. The tryptophan amino acid will make you feel fatigued by producing the 5-Ht metabolite that signals to the brain that your body is fatigued. Studies have shown that taking BCAAs before workouts lessen 5-HT levels enabling you to train harder and longer for massive muscle growth.
Muscle growth
Although the BCAAs are effective energy boosters, the main reason why most bodybuilders take them is that of their ability to stimulate muscle growth. Supplements encourage muscle growth through protein synthesis. A study by the University of Texas Medical Branch found that the most important amino acid among the three BCAAs when it comes to protein synthesis is the Leucine. Leucine is essential because it instigates the synthesis process as well as boosts the insulin levels. However, although Leucine provides you with a dual effect, the best BCAA product should contain all BCAAs as they complement each other.
Another study by Italian researchers discovered that taking BCAAs for a period of one month will increase the growth hormone levels as well as the growth hormone binding protein after workouts. The growth hormone binding protein is essential because it functions as the growth hormone carrier in the blood. Another study found that taking BCAA significantly reduces the cortisol levels in the body. The cortisol is a catabolic hormone that affects the growth of muscles.
Strength
A study by Italian researchers found that athletes taking BCAAs for two days increased their grip unlike those who took placebo in the same period. The California State University also discovered that the greatest levels of strength occurred in leg muscles. Other studies have also shown that athletes who take BCAAs experience less muscle breakdown after workouts as well as increased muscle recovery.
Fat loss
When combined with a low-calorie diet, BCAAs enhance the overall weight loss as well as body fat reduction, especially in the abdominal area. Leucine is considered the most effective in weight loss and fat reduction. Researchers believe that Leucine influences the brain to decrease hunger.
Conclusion
The best way to gain muscles, strength and boost energy is to take care of your health by taking the best protein supplements for your bodybuilding needs. When choosing the best BCAA 2018 supplement, you must ensure that it contains all essential amino acids. Furthermore, looking for a product that does not contain impurities is important for your health.