What is BCAA?

BCAA stands for Branched Chain Amino Acids or in Dutch also 'branched chain amino acids', but what exactly is BCAA? BCAA consists of three essential amino acids. These are isoleucine, leucine and valine. These are called essential amino acids because they cannot be produced by the body itself. In short, amino acids are the building blocks of protein and are particularly popular among athletes who focus on muscle building. Isoleucine, leucine and valine belong to one third of the total of nine essential amino acids. For example, foods that also contain these branched-chain amino acids are beef, chicken, wild salmon and rice.

BCAA effect

What is the effect of BCAA? Amino acids are used by the body for, among other things, the recovery of muscles after heavy training or exertion. The body cannot produce isoleucine, leucine and valine itself, so to get these amino acids, you can opt for the use of BCAAs.

BCAA also plays an important role in muscle protein synthesis. This is the process of converting proteins in the cells of muscles and is important for building muscle mass. Muscle protein synthesis can only take place if you take in enough amino acids. BCAA can therefore be administered as a supplement to maintain muscle strength and prevent muscle damage during vigorous exercise that can cause DOMS (delayed muscle soreness) in the sports environment.

Another advantage of BCAAs during exercise is that they go directly to the muscles. This works as follows: when the body has run out of energy sources, such as carbohydrates, the body enters a difficult phase. The muscles need energy, but converting fat into energy takes too long and the body then converts the easiest form of amino acids into energy. Unlike other amino acids, BCAAs go directly to the muscles. Because of this short chain, BCAAs are the easiest to convert into energy when tired. However, for BCAA to work, it is important that the intake of other essential amino acids is also adequate.

BCAA Powder

At House of Nutrition BCAA powder is available in different proportions. The powdered BCAA is available in 2:1:1, 4:1:1 and 8:1:1 ratios. This refers to the amount of leucine in relation to isoleucine and valine. The most common ratio is 2:1:1. BCAA in powder form is often used right before training so that you can give it your all during training. For recovery, you can also choose to take the sports drink after training or directly in the morning. Many athletes choose to combine BCAA supplements with other nutritional supplements such as vitamins and minerals. Are you curious about BCAA in powder form? Our favorites are VOLT BCAA 8:1:1 from First Class Nutrition and BCAA-G 8:1:1 Complex from Performance Sports Nutrition.

BCAA Capsules

In addition to BCAA powder, you can also choose to use BCAA in the form of tablets or capsules. With regard to tablets and capsules, House of Nutrition includes BCAA from M Double You and BCAA 6000 from Performance Sports Nutrition. When choosing the right BCAA supplement, you can, for example, pay attention to whether the capsules contain vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 contributes to the proper absorption of amino acids by the muscles.

Buy BCAA at House of Nutrition

At House of Nutrition you can choose from a wide range of BCAAs. You can determine for yourself whether you prefer BCAA powder or BCAA capsules. Apart from the method of ingestion, the effect of this is largely the same. Would you like to be able to quickly use the BCAA product you want? At House of Nutrition you don't have to wait long. Order your product before 23:59 and we will ensure that the order is received the next day. In addition, orders above €300,- are shipped for free!