June 8, 2021
When I was speaking at a recent workshop on Triathlon Transitions and Nutrition, I briefly referenced the importance of BCAA’s and mentioned that I thought I wrote a blog about it last year. Went back to check…and NOPE! So here it is!
First, let’s talk about Amino Acids. They are the building blocks of protein. There are 20 that the human body needs to grow and function properly.
Nine of these Amino Acids are Essential (EAA’s). These 9 can’t be made by your body and need to be obtained through your diet. The best sources for EAA’s are from animal proteins like meat, eggs, and dairy.
See where I’m going with this, plant-based friends?
BCCA’s are a group of 3 Essential Amino Acids that can boost muscle growth and enhance exercise performance. They can also reduce physical and mental fatigue and diminish muscle soreness.
Sounds like a good recovery tool to me!
While the 9 EAA’s (which includes the 3 BCCA’s) can be found in a healthy, balanced nutrition plan, if you lean toward more plant-based foods, a supplement may be something to look into. There are several brands on the market and unfortunately, it takes a little consumer trial and error to find one that you like.
I add a scoop of my favorite EAA to my afternoon water bottle every day. Do you use an EAA or BCAA supplement
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