Taking BCAA supplements is a growing trend among fitness enthusiasts. Previously taken only by bodybuilders or athletes, awareness of these supplements has made people sit up and take notice. Basically, BCAA, or Branched Chain Amino Acid, is a group of amino acids that play a vital role in energy production and protein synthesis.
The key components of the BCAAs are leucine, isoleucine and valine, which together pack a punch of energy. This is because BCAAs are the part of the nine essential amino acids that the human body requires. These amino acids are extremely important from the standpoint of rapid muscle repair and lean muscle building. If you are not a health conscious person, the following benefits of these supplements will surely make you one.
The most important reason BCAA supplements are taken is that these acids help balance levels of fatty acids, commonly known as fats. People all over the world consider this as a magic pill as it decreases the most dreaded fatty acids in the body thus reducing extra weight. In fact, expert dietitians have strongly endorsed these supplements for obese people.
People who exercise for long hours tend to tense their muscles, which leads to a high probability of breaking down the muscle tissue. These supplements are recommended as they help in muscle repair and also in the growth of muscle tissue. Studies reveal that supplements taken before training trigger the catabolism process. This occurs because the level of BCAAs increases after ingestion and exercise causes the activation of the enzyme that carries out catabolism. Post-workout supplements are usually energy drinks that have high amounts of BCAAs that also increase testosterone level.
Cardiac patients should include BCAAs in their diet, as they have been shown to significantly lower cholesterol levels. BCAAs play an important role in reducing visceral fat, which is the deepest fat in the human body. As these supplements burn calories, the heart stays healthy.
A healthy body makes the brain work better. The biochemical functions of the brain that improve its functioning are enhanced by the intake of these supplements. They also help in reducing brain fatigue. People who work long hours vouch for these supplements as they are better than any caffeine booster and help increase energy levels.
The immune system suffers when your body is faced with illness or stress, making it prone to infections. BCAA intake ensures that muscle proteins are not broken down. Instead, it increases protein synthesis, which means you gain more muscle instead of losing it.
We all know that everything taken in excess is bad for the body. That being said, excessive intake of BCAAs should be strictly avoided. You should not take more than 10-15 g per day.
Also, diabetic patients are instructed to follow their doctor’s advice before starting them. If taken in the right proportions, BCAA supplements can ensure you live a healthy and prosperous life.
