BCAAs or Branched-chain amino acids are the essential nutrients required to gain energy. Our body burns these amino acids to generate energy. The branched chain of amino acids is made through 3 amino acids:
1. Leucine
2. Isoleucine
3. Valine.
Benefits of BCAA Powder
BCAA helps to build good muscle metabolism
and gain muscle tissue protein. Oral supplements like BCAA powder benefit
athletes and fitness enthusiasts in recovering from heavy workouts and
enhancing performance. Studies prove that BCAAs help in preventing muscle
breakdown during workouts. Moreover, BCAAs are essential as these can’t be made
by your body. Hence, it requires to get from diet.
Effects of BCAAs, if consumed consistently
for a long time :
1. Keeps you hydrated:
BCAAs are the building blocks of protein,
that is, they help keep you hydrated during the workout.
2. Less fatigue:
BCAAs can reduce mental and physical
fatigue. However, not many studies have been able to prove that less fatigue
has led to improved performance but it has seen improvement in the duration of
the exercise before reaching the exhaustion stage.
3. Improves muscle soreness:
In a study conducted by Health Line, people
were asked about muscle soreness after a workout when they consumed BCAA and
the majority noted 33% lower soreness in muscles. (“Exercise-induced muscle
damage is reduced in resistance-trained males by branched chain amino acids: a
randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study”)
4. Helps in building muscle mass:
BCAAs have been shown to activate enzymes
that are involved in muscle growth. Some research has also suggested that BCAA
supplementation may increase muscle mass, particularly if the supplement
contains a higher percentage of leucine compared to isoleucine and valine.
5. Helps in weight loss:
If you are trying to slim down, BCAAs can
help your body shed excess fat more efficiently. According to observational
research, people who consume an average daily intake of 15 grams of BCAAs maybe
30% less likely to be overweight or obese than those who consume 12 grams.
Best BCAA Supplements to Explore
Choosing the best BCAA supplement for you
can be tough. Therefore, here’s a breakdown of the popular choices:
1. Xtend BCAA:
Often considered a top contender, Xtend
BCAA offers a well-rounded formula with electrolytes and glutamine for added
recovery support. Consider factors like price as it comes with a premium tag.
Each serving gives 7g of BCAA and the cost for 30 servings is approx. 1,800 Rs.
2. GNC BCAA:
GNC's products are made with a
top-of-the-line formula that contains extra vitamin B6 for better absorption.
It serves 7g of instantiated BCAA in each serving and the cost for 30 servings
is approx. 1,600 Rs. Consider your desired ingredients and compare different
BCAA options before making a purchase.
3. MuscleBlaze BCAA:
MuscleBlaze BCAA pro-Essential Amino Acids
offer 7g of branched-chain amino acids per meal. Muscles benefit from the 2:1:1
ratio of BCAAs, which are leucine, valine, and isoleucine. The price for 30
servings is approx. 1,500 Rs.
During exercises, Reset Bcaa Plus gives you
a burst of clean, smooth energy that quickly boosts your intensity to knock out
more sets and reps when your energy wanes. It comes in three flavours namely,
Strawberry, Blueberry, and Watermelon. It’s reasonable and gives more servings
(35) than the standard servings (30) at approx. 1,400 Rs.
5. Fast & Up Reload:
This Indian brand might be worth exploring
alongside international options. Research online reviews and compare
ingredients to see if Fast & Up Reload aligns with your goals. It is
comparatively cheaper than other options since it’s in the form of tablets. It
is made with targeted vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, carbohydrates, and
electrolytes that are known to support energy, hydration, and electrolyte
balance in the body. The cost for a 20-day supply is approx. 200 Rs.
Conclusion
BCAAs are an excellent choice for athletes
and fitness enthusiasts looking to maximize their workout and recovery efforts.
Their ability to increase muscle mass, decrease fatigue, and improve recovery
make them a valuable asset. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s
needs are different, and a balanced diet should always be at the core of your
fitness regimen. If you’re looking into BCAA supplements, talk to your doctor
and look at the options listed above to determine the best fit for you and your
budget. Consistency and a balanced lifestyle are the keys to achieving your
fitness goals
