Benefits of Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplements for Post-Workout Recovery
Benefits of Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplements for Post-Workout Recovery
If you’ve ever seen or heard about BCAA supplements or recovery supplements and wondered what they are and what’s behind all the buzz, this is for you. Branched-chain amino acids, or BCAAs, are found naturally in many protein-rich foods. They’re also popular with athletes as a dietary supplement, often found in powder form.
Read on as we dive into some basic questions about BCAA supplements and their reputation for improving post-workout recovery.
What are Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) and How Do They Work?
BCAAs are essential amino acids found in eggs, meat, dairy, soy proteins, nuts, and legumes. Named for their chainlike chemical structure, the branched-chain amino acids are:
- Leucine
- Isoleucine
- Valine
Unlike “nonessential” amino acids, your body does not produce leucine, isoleucine, or valine. For this reason, BCAAs are deemed “essential” meaning you can only get them from your diet.
BCAAs play a number of roles in the body. Like all amino acids, BCAAs are the building blocks your body uses to make proteins and build muscle tissue. What’s different about BCAAs is that they’re broken down primarily within the muscle, rather than in the liver. Thus it is believed that BCAAs may contribute to energy production during exercise. That means they may help you exercise harder as well as prevent muscle fatigue and degradation.
BCAAs support muscle metabolism and help to regulate your blood sugar levels. Additionally, BCAAs have been found to reduce the production of serotonin in your brain, which may help reduce fatigue during exercise.
Benefits of BCAA Supplements
Athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking to perform at their best may take BCAA supplements for their ability to support peak performance and quick recovery.
The main benefits of BCAA recovery supplements include:
- Supporting muscle growth
- Reducing muscle soreness
- Preventing muscle degradation
- Improving muscle recovery
- Reducing muscle fatigue following workouts
Some of the best BCAA and recovery supplements for athletes include twice the amount of leucine as isoleucine or valine. This 2:1:1 ratio is preferred due to evidence suggesting that leucine is the most effective in invigorating protein synthesis and limiting muscle breakdown. Many BCAA and recovery supplements also contain glutamine for its power to assist with muscle restoration and prevent muscle degradation. Glutamine is also considered important for immune function, which can be compromised by heavy exercise.
Recover Faster and Come Back Stronger with THRIVE Recovery Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplement
A serious workout requires serious recovery. Whether you’re a marathon runner, triathlete, or mountain biker, you may be wondering about the best way to incorporate BCAA supplements into your exercise regimen.
CamelBak’s THRIVE Recovery is a branched-chain amino acid supplement formulated to support, repair, and maintain lean muscle growth while helping to reduce post workout soreness.
THRIVE’s 4g BCAA Recovery Formula contains:
- L-Leucine (2 grams)*
- L-Isoleucine (1 gram)
- L-Valine (1 gram)
In addition to this proven 2:1:1 ratio of BCAAs to support muscle growth and recovery, THRIVE includes 1g of glutamine to assist with muscle restoration after exercise.
Taken in moderation as part of a balanced regimen of nutrition, hydration and good sleep habits, THRIVE can encourage a virtuous circle of growth and recovery**. THRIVE is a convenient and tasty powder that you can enjoy anywhere, anytime. Simply mix one serving (one scoop) in 8-16 ounces of water and drink before, during or after your workout. Ready to THRIVE? Try it now!
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
**Check with your healthcare provider before taking branched-chain amino acid supplements if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant, taking medication, under 18, or you have a medical condition.
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