Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA’s) are essential amino acids which means they are not produced by the body and need to be obtained from one’s diet. BCAA’s are composed of three amino acids: leucine, isoleucine and valine which together play a great role in reducing body fat and preserving lean muscle tissue.
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Great Supplement to Shed Body Fat Quickly
For those persons wanting to shed significant amounts of body fat while building lean muscle mass in a short space of time, BCAA’s would be of great benefit. For one, BCAA’s provide the benefits of protein without the calories. That’s right, BCAA’s add no calories to your diet while at the same time providing you with increased strength and endurance. A common complaint amont persons on a low calorie diet for weight loss is a lack of energy and tiredness. This is because you are not providing your body with sufficient fuel and this results not only in the breakdown of fat for energy but also lean muscle tissue which will make one feel weaker. Taking BCAA’s will protect your muscles from being broken down for energy ensuring that only fat is lost on a calorie restrictive diet. How cool is that?
Naturally Increases Growth Hormone Levels
BCAA’s are unique in that unlike other amino acids which first have to be broken down in the liver before reaching muscle cells they are transported directly to the muscles which means that the eneryg from BCAA’s are much more immediate than all other forms of protein. To obtain the muscle building effects of BCAA’s you should combine taking this supplement with weight training. BCAA’s actually increase leavels of the growth hormones like testosterone while lowering levels of the catabolic stress hormone cortisol when taken before or after your workout. Therefore, to create the best environment for muscle growth it would be wise to supplement with BCAA’s.
Not A Substitute for A Proper Nutritional Programme
BCAA’s are not substitutes to a proper nutritional programme but it can make up for a deficient diet especially calorie restrictive ones for those who want to lose weight fast. Going on calorie restrictive diets to lose weight is not healthy and you should always ensure that you get nutrients in sufficient amounts from all the major food groups: carbohydrates, protein and fats in the ratios necessary. The best way to lose weight is not to starve yourself but to eat healthy and work out to create a calorie deficit in which you can lose fat and build quality muscle.
Author Bio:
Chris Brown is a 25 year old fitness enthusiast who blogs at Gain Build Muscle. Follow him on twitter.