I will always have a fond memory of BCAAs as they were the second supplement I ever bought, and I have always included them in all my intra-workout routines. In this article, I will explain why you should include them as well.
What Are BCAAs?
BCAAs, or Branched-Chain Amino Acids, are a group of essential amino acids. They are called essential because our bodies cannot produce them on their own, so we need to obtain them through food or supplements.
In this case, there are three amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These three amino acids perform several essential functions in the human body.
BCAAs Intra-Workout
BCAAs are the perfect product to take during workouts. During training, our body tends to enter a catabolic state (in the worst case, the body will break down muscle mass to use as an energy source). Here, leucine can play a key role in preventing muscle catabolism, as it is one of the main activators of the mTOR pathway (a pathway essential for protein synthesis).
By promoting muscle synthesis during exercise, BCAAs can also prevent and reduce muscle damage, thereby preventing or diminishing soreness.
2:1:1 The Golden Ratio
Our BCAAs come in a 2:1:1 ratio. What does this mean? Simply put, for every part of isoleucine and valine, there are two parts of leucine. According to science, this is the perfect ratio, as it is the amino acid ratio that has been proven in scientific trials to be the most effective. Although all three amino acids are considered essential, leucine is undoubtedly the principal one.
Vitamin B6
Our amino acids include Vitamin B6. Why? It’s simple. Our R&D team wanted to take an extra step and innovate in the market, and that’s what we’ve done.
Vitamin B6 acts as a coenzyme in metabolizing amino acids, making them easier to absorb and use. It also prevents protein catabolism during and after exercise.
Vitamin B6 also facilitates the conversion of glucose into glycogen, making it easier for the body to receive energy.
It plays a key role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, improving our energy levels and mood.
Minerals
Finally, we decided to add minerals. When we exercise, we lose many minerals through sweat (hence why sweat tastes salty). Replenishing these minerals during the workout can improve electrolyte balance, prevent cramps, enhance athletic performance during training, and provide the most anabolic environment possible.
