BCAAs: How to know if you should be taking these (not everyone needs to)
If you haven’t yet learned what BCAAs are, read this first (yeah, yeah, we’re bossy;)).
BCAAs are comprised of leucine, isoleucine and valine and these are PROMINENT in the health and wellness space. We haven’t talked about them much, because they’re not necessarily important if you’re hitting your protein goal every day.
As a reminder, your daily protein goal is one gram of protein, per your current (or goal body weight). If you’re currently 175lbs, and your goal weight is 150lbs, your daily protein goal would be:
150 pounds x one gram of protein = 150 grams of protein per day, or 50 grams of protein per meal
Over our years of nutrition coaching, it has been proven time and time again that it is HARD to reach your daily protein goal, even if you’re using supplements, like protein powder.
Here’s the two reasons YOU should be taking BCAAs:
If you’re consistently missing your daily protein goal. BCAAs can support muscle building and recovery in people who don’t eat enough protein (i.e.: Vegans), or struggle with meeting their daily goal. BCAAs can assist in enhancing your overall amino acid intake, improving muscle preservation and recovery
If you’re undergoing intense strength training.
These are NOT required if you’re consistently hitting your daily protein goal, and they are NOT necessary for muscle growth.
So how do BCAAs benefit your health and fat loss goals?
Muscle Protein Synthesis: BCAAs, particularly leucine, stimulate muscle protein synthesis, which is crucial for building and maintaining muscle mass.
Reduced Muscle Breakdown: During exercise, especially intense training, your body can break down muscle protein for energy. BCAAs can help prevent this muscle breakdown, preserving lean muscle mass.
Increased Exercise Performance: BCAAs may help reduce muscle fatigue during exercise, allowing you to train harder and longer.
Fat Loss: While not a direct fat burner, maintaining muscle mass is crucial for fat loss. BCAAs can help you preserve muscle while dieting, which can boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories.
Reduced Muscle Soreness: BCAAs may help reduce muscle soreness after intense workouts.
Moral of the story?
We want to ensure we’re providing you with the education, tools and resources to reach your health and wellness goals, and, if you’re struggling meeting your daily protein intake, we strongly suggest incorporating our Watermelon Sugar BCAAs into you daily routine!
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your physician before taking any supplement.