Branched-Chain Amino Acids
NOW Sports
Branched-Chain Amino Acids
4.6
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(1947 ratings)
Leucine 1600 mg
Valine 650 mg
Isoleucine 650 mg
Score 85.0
A high-dose BCAA supplement with a strong Leucine ratio, offering excellent effectiveness and competitive value for serious training.
Quantity: 240 Capsule(s)Servings size: 4 Capsule(s) (60 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Muscle Gain
Fitness
Weight Gain
Energy
leaderboard Score 85.0
A high-dose BCAA supplement with a strong Leucine ratio, offering excellent effectiveness and competitive value for serious training.
insights Analysis
NOW Sports Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAA) provides a substantial 5800mg (5.8g) of BCAAs per serving, maintaining a beneficial 2.46:1:1 (Leucine:Isoleucine:Valine) ratio. This high dosage is well-aligned with research-backed recommendations for maximizing muscle protein synthesis, reducing muscle breakdown, and accelerating recovery, making it a highly effective choice for individuals with demanding training schedules. The price per serving of 41 units is very competitive when considering the significant amount of BCAAs per dose. Online reviews consistently highlight NOW Sports' commitment to quality and the perceived effectiveness of their products, reinforcing its strong market position.
- High BCAA dosage (5.8g) per serving, ideal for intense training and muscle recovery.
- Beneficial Leucine-heavy ratio supports maximum muscle protein synthesis.
- Competitive price per serving for the substantial amount of BCAAs, offering great value.
- Requires multiple capsules per serving to achieve the full stated dosage, which might be inconvenient for some users.
- Ensure sufficient water intake when supplementing with BCAAs to prevent dehydration.
- Individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use.
$24.75($0.41 per serving)
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bolt Effectiveness for goals
Leucine is a key amino acid that directly stimulates muscle protein synthesis, the process essential for muscle repair and growth. While isoleucine and valine also contribute, leucine is particularly potent in signaling this process. The combined action helps support overall muscle maintenance and development.
Some research indicates that BCAA supplementation may help decrease delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after exercise. This is attributed to their role in supporting muscle repair and reducing protein breakdown during strenuous activity. However, individual results can vary based on exercise type and intensity.
Yes, BCAAs are unique in that they can be directly metabolized by muscles and used as an energy source during exercise. This availability helps spare existing muscle protein from being broken down to fuel activity, thereby supporting muscle preservation. All three BCAAs contribute to this protective effect.
While all three BCAAs are essential, leucine is particularly important for initiating muscle protein synthesis. Common ratios like 2:1:1 or 4:1:1 (Leucine:Isoleucine:Valine) reflect leucine's primary signaling role. However, all three amino acids are necessary for optimal muscle function and should be present.
BCAAs, particularly valine, may help reduce central fatigue during prolonged exercise by competing with tryptophan for uptake into the brain. This could potentially mitigate the production of serotonin, which is associated with feelings of tiredness. However, direct improvements in performance are not consistently observed in all studies.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
Common daily dosages for branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) typically range from 5 to 20 grams, depending on individual activity levels and goals. This amount is often divided into multiple servings throughout the day. The specific ratio of leucine, isoleucine, and valine can also influence recommended amounts.
Many individuals choose to consume branched-chain amino acids before, during, or after exercise. Taking them before or during a workout may help reduce muscle breakdown and support endurance. Post-exercise consumption is often favored to aid in muscle protein synthesis and recovery.
Branched-chain amino acids can be taken either with food or on an empty stomach. Taking them with food might slightly slow their absorption, whereas taking them alone may lead to quicker uptake. For most individuals, consistency of intake around exercise is often more important than meal timing.
Yes, the ratio of leucine, isoleucine, and valine is considered important, with leucine playing a key role in stimulating muscle protein synthesis. Common ratios like 2:1:1 or 4:1:1 (Leucine:Isoleucine:Valine) are frequently used based on current research. The specific proportions can influence the desired physiological effects.
While both capsule and powder forms deliver the same active branched-chain amino acids, absorption rates might slightly differ. Powders, when dissolved and consumed, may be digested and absorbed more quickly than capsules, which need to dissolve first. The choice often comes down to personal preference for convenience or desired intake speed.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Yes, when taken within recommended dosages, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are generally considered safe for most healthy adults. They are essential amino acids found in protein-rich foods. Adhering to manufacturer guidelines is advised.
When consumed in appropriate doses, side effects are uncommon. Some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or diarrhea, especially with very high doses or on an empty stomach. These effects are typically transient.
Some research suggests that high intake of branched-chain amino acids might be associated with insulin resistance in certain populations. Individuals with diabetes or those taking blood sugar-lowering medications should consult a healthcare professional before use, as it may affect glucose control. Monitoring blood sugar is recommended.
Yes, high doses of branched-chain amino acids may interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of levodopa, a common medication for Parkinson's disease. This is due to competition for transport across the blood-brain barrier. Individuals on levodopa should consult their doctor regarding dosage and timing.
Individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver disease should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before using branched-chain amino acids. Impaired organ function can affect the metabolism and excretion of amino acids, potentially leading to complications. Professional medical advice is crucial in these cases.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
L-Leucine | 1600 mg |
L-Isoleucine | 650 mg |
L-Valine | 650 mg |
Categories
Leucine 90.0
Contains 3200mg of L-Leucine per serving, providing a potent dose of the key amino acid responsible for initiating muscle protein synthesis, maximizing its anabolic potential.
Valine 80.0
Provides 1300mg of L-Valine, which is vital for nitrogen balance and muscle metabolism, contributing effectively to muscle function and recovery during demanding physical activity.
Isoleucine 80.0
Includes 1300mg of L-Isoleucine, which assists in glucose uptake by muscle cells for energy and supports muscle repair, enhancing the overall recovery and performance benefits of the BCAA blend.
Goals
Muscle Gain 85.0
With 5.8g of BCAAs per serving and a beneficial 2.46:1:1 ratio, this product provides an effective dose to significantly support muscle protein synthesis and reduce muscle breakdown, crucial for muscle gain.
Fitness 80.0
The higher BCAA dosage is highly beneficial for mitigating exercise-induced muscle damage, aiding in faster recovery, and sustaining performance during prolonged or intense fitness activities.
Energy 75.0
The substantial BCAA dose can serve as a readily available energy source during prolonged workouts, helping to delay central fatigue and preserve muscle glycogen stores, thus enhancing endurance.
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