Let’s start with explaining what BCAA are exactly.
“BCAA” stands for Branched-Chain Amino Acids, which are essential amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They are called “essential” because the body does not produce them on its own, they must be gained through food or supplements.
The main purposes of BCAA’s are:
- Stimulating muscle protein synthesis, which is how the muscles are made
- Decreasing muscle soreness
- Preventing muscle breakdown
“EAA” stands for Essential Amino Acids, they are a combination of nine amino acids:
- Leucine
- Isoleucine
- Valine
- Histidine
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Phenylalanine
- Threonine
- Tryptophan
So, like the BCAA’s, EAA’s offer the same benefits and must also be gained through the diet, since the body can’t provide those amino acids.
What’s the difference?
Well obviously, the main difference between the BCAA’s and EAA’s is the number of essential amino acids in one and another. Although, EAA’s seem more complete, it does not mean they are more efficient. Since they are made of more essential amino acids, the concentration of each is less than the BCAA’s.
Which one should we choose?
The right answer is both.
BCAA’s will increase the effectiveness of the EAA’s. It will help to increase the energy level and mood and maximize the protein synthesis.