BCAAs are branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine). These are particular types of amino acids that do not need to be metabolised by the liver and directly intervene on muscle work by contributing to the synthesis of other important amino acids such as glutamine and alanine. They can be found in foods (meat, fish, eggs and dairy products) but they are also among the most used supplements by sportsmen and those who follow a low-calorie diet.
In fact, BCAAs have an important ANTI-CATABOLIC action on the muscles, therefore they help to prevent the loss of muscle mass with intense effort in the gym or with the reduced intake of nutrients and weight loss.
The main reasons why supplementing with BCAAs is a good idea are:
- They contribute to muscle growth (which, however, also needs all the other essential amino acids)
- They reduce muscle soreness and fatigue that is felt after exercise, aid in recovery
- They help prevent muscle loss resulting from certain situations, diseases and slimming diets
Foods Rich in Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA)
Food |
Amount |
BCAAs |
Beef |
100g |
6.8g |
Chicken breast |
100g |
5.88g |
Milk's proteins |
1 scoop |
5.5g |
Soy protein |
1 scoop |
5.5g |
Canned tuna |
100g |
5.2g |
Salmon |
100g |
4.9g |
Turkey breast |
100g |
4.6g |
Egg |
2 eggs |
3.28g |
Parmesan |
50g |
4.5 g |
Milk 1% fat |
235ml |
2.2 g |
Greek yogurt |
140g |
2 g |