If you’re a body builder or are otherwise trying to build muscle, you might have heard about Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). BCAAs are a group of three essential amino acids, which the body cannot produce on its own. That means you must get BCAAs through diet or supplements.

Here’s an explanation of what BCAAs are and their benefits in Poplar Bluff, MO.

What are BCAAs?

Amino acids are the “building blocks of proteins,” which helps your body build proteins and synthesize hormones and neurotransmitters. Your body needs 20 different amino acids for proper function, but only nine of them are considered essential.

Three of these essential amino acids—leucine, isoleucine and valine—cannot be produced by the body. However, they make up about 35 to 40 percent of all the essential amino acids present in your body—and up to 18 percent of those found in your muscles alone.

BCAAs don’t just build protein and muscle, however. They also help increase energy, regulate your blood sugar and can reduce fatigue by helping reduce serotonin production during exercise. If these sound like goals you want to achieve, keep reading.

What are the benefits of BCAAs?

Here’s a closer look at the key benefits of BCAAs:

• Help lose weight: Studies have shown that consuming 15 grams of BCAAs per day helps lower the risk of becoming overweight or obese by up to 30 percent. Scientists believe BCAAs may help your body get rid of unwanted weight more easily.
• Increase muscle mass: BCAA supplements may help you increase your muscle mass after workouts. That’s because they activate and support the enzymes that help your body build muscle. However, you can also get the same effect from consuming whole proteins.
• Lower blood sugar levels: Your BCAA supplements may help regulate your blood sugar levels by allowing your muscles to take in more sugar, and secreting more insulin. However, this isn’t foolproof—high fat diets can increase insulin resistance.
• Lower liver disease complications: Liver disease comes with a lot of complications, and a diet or supplement rich in BCAAs can help fight those side effects. However, it’s not a cure, and it won’t improve the overall survival rate.
• Reduce exercise fatigue: BCAAs may reduce exercise fatigue by up to 15 percent, thanks to their reduction of serotonin production. That allows you to work out harder and longer.
• Reduce muscle soreness: Finally, BCAAs can reduce muscle soreness by lowering the enzymes that cause muscle damage.

How can I incorporate more BCAAs into my lifestyle?

You can naturally enjoy the benefits of BCAAs in Poplar Bluff, MO by incorporating them into your lifestyle through diet. For example, meat, poultry, fish, beans and milk are highest in the amino acids. Tofu, cheese, eggs, pumpkin seeds, quinoa and nuts are also good sources of BCAAs.

Supplements are also available. As with any health regimen, be sure to talk to your medical doctor before beginning a new supplement.

For quality organic food and supplements, The Bee Hive Natural Foods has you covered. Stop by or call today to learn more about our selection.