EAA vs BCAA: Which Amino Acids Reign Supreme for Fitness?
Posted by Leonard Shemtob on Mar 29, 2024
Are you searching for the ultimate amino acid to enhance your fitness regimen?
Your quest can finally end here, as we introduce some of the top ranking contenders in the amino acid game.
In the epic showdown of EAAs vs BCAAs, we're diving deep to learn the details behind these two widely used muscle-building tools.
Whether you're a newbie or experienced gym enthusiast, this guide is your ticket to understanding how each one can help you crush your goals.
Raise your hand if you're ready to become the most informed lifter in the room when it involves this particular subject!
Short Summary:
- A comprehensive exploration of the 20 amino acids, their roles, benefits, and suggested daily doses.
- Detailed breakdown into Essential Amino Acids (EAAs), Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs), and Non-Essential Amino Acids.
- Insights into how amino acids support muscle growth, immune function, and overall health.
- Buy the Best Amino Acid Supplement and Dominate Every Workout with Unrivaled Power!
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EAAs and BCAAs: The Dynamic Duo of Muscle Building
What are EAAs?
Essential Amino Acids (EAAs) are the building blocks your body needs but can't make on its own. In the human body, there are a total of 20 amino acids, and 9 of them are essential. These essential amino acids support muscle growth, repair tissue, and keep your immune system strong.
What are BCAAs?
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) are a special trio within the EAAs - Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine. They're superstars in promoting muscle growth and reducing soreness after a workout.
Why They're Essential in Your Routine
Both EAAs and BCAAs are crucial for anyone looking to build lean muscle mass, recover faster, and perform better. They stimulate muscle protein synthesis, which is just a fancy way of saying they help your muscles grow and repair.
What's the Difference Between EAAs vs BCAAs?
The main difference is that EAAs include all nine essential amino acids, while BCAAs only include three. While BCAAs are great for supporting muscle, EAAs provide a more complete protein source. This makes them a bit more versatile in supporting overall health and muscle growth.
The Benefits of BCAA vs EAAs
Not having enough of these amino acids in your diet can lead to muscle loss and slower recovery. Supplementing with BCAAs can help maintain muscle mass, while EAA supplements can provide a more complete support for muscle growth and overall health.
Potential Side Effects
While these supplements are generally safe, it's always good to be aware of potential side effects. Overdoing it can potentially lead to an upset stomach or bloating. As with any supplement, it's best to stick to the recommended dosage.
The Ultimate Amino Acid Cheat Sheet
Here's a closer look at all the amino acids, their distinct roles, and the key benefits that they provide for our bodies:
Essential Amino Acids (EAAs) | ||
---|---|---|
Amino Acid | Key Benefits | Suggested Dose |
Histidine | Supports immune system, synthesizes neurotransmitters | 8-12mg/kg |
Isoleucine | Aids in muscle repair, regulates blood sugar | 10-12mg/kg |
Leucine | Stimulates muscle protein synthesis, supports growth | 14-16mg/kg |
Lysine | Supports immune system, produces collagen | 12-16mg/kg |
Methionine | Helps detoxify, synthesizes other amino acids | 10-12mg/kg |
Phenylalanine | Produces neurotransmitters, aids in mood regulation | 14-16mg/kg |
Threonine | Supports immune system, aids in fat metabolism | 7-9mg/kg |
Tryptophan | Precursor to serotonin, aids in sleep and mood | 4-6mg/kg |
Valine | Stimulates muscle growth, aids in energy production | 10-12mg/kg |
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) | ||
Amino Acid | Key Benefits | Suggested Dose |
Isoleucine | Aids in muscle repair, regulates blood sugar | 10-12mg/kg |
Leucine | Stimulates muscle protein synthesis, supports growth | 14-16mg/kg |
Valine | Stimulates muscle growth, aids in energy production | 10-12mg/kg |
Non-Essential Amino Acids | ||
Amino Acid | Key Benefits | Suggested Dose |
Alanine | Helps convert glucose into energy, supports immune system | N/A |
Arginine | Supports blood flow, aids in wound healing | N/A |
Asparagine | Important for nervous system function, aids in protein synthesis | N/A |
Aspartic Acid | Supports enzyme function, aids in neurotransmitter synthesis | N/A |
Cysteine | Supports detoxification, promotes skin and hair health | N/A |
Glutamic Acid | Supports brain function, aids in energy production | N/A |
Glutamine | Supports immune system, aids in gut health | N/A |
Glycine | Supports collagen production, aids in detoxification | N/A |
Proline | Supports collagen production, aids in wound healing | N/A |
Serine | Supports brain function, aids in cell membrane formation | N/A |
Tyrosine | Precursor to neurotransmitters, aids in stress response | N/A |
Note: The suggested doses for the essential amino acids are based on general guidelines for adults. The doses for the non-essential amino acids (marked as "N/A") can vary depending on individual needs. Talk to your doctor before starting any new diet or supplement regimen.
Top EAA and BCAA Supplements
Experience the power of these top-tier EAA and BCAA supplements, tailored to amplify your strength, performance, and muscle gains:
Resurgence by Blackstone Labs
Packed with BCAAs and additional recovery aids, Resurgence is your go-to for post-workout recovery.
Key Ingredients:
- Vitamins (A, B2, B6, B12, C, D3, E, K1)
- BCAAs (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine)
- EAAs (Lysine, Threonine, Methionine, Phenylalanine)
- HICA
- Alanine
- Taurine
- CDP Choline
- Theobromine
Key Benefits:
- Improves focus and metal clarity
- Increases endurance
- Reduces muscle soreness
- Supports muscle growth
- Aids in faster recovery
- Provides rejuvenating vitamins and minerals
Amino Gro by iSatori
With its unique blend of BCAAs and Bio-Active IGF boosting Peptides, Amino Gro is designed to help you build muscle and recover faster.
Key Ingredients:
- BCAAs (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine)
- Bio Active Peptides (Colostrum)
- Glutamine
- Taurine
- Coconut Water
- Electrolyte Blend
Key Benefits:
- Increases protein synthesis
- Boosts IGF
- Promotes muscle growth
- Improves endurance
- Speeds up recovery
Animal Fury by Universal Nutrition
Animal Fury combines BCAAs with caffeine and other powerful pump ingredients to fuel your workouts.
Key Ingredients:
- BCAAs (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine)
- Citrulline Malate
- Beta-Alanine
- L-Tyrosine
- Caffeine Anhydrous
Key Benefits:
- Increases energy
- Improves focus
- Enhances muscle pumps
- Helps buffer lactic acid
- Supports muscle growth
- Enhances workout performance and recovery
Amino2 by Myogenix
Amino2 provides both EAAs and BCAAs, making it a comprehensive option for supporting muscle growth and recovery.
Key Ingredients:
- Leucine
- Isoleucine
- Valine
Key Benefits:
- 10 grams of BCAAs per serving
- Supports muscle growth
- Enhances recovery
- Improves workout performance
Perfect Amino by BodyHealth Nutrition
This powerhouse delivers all the essential amino acids your body needs. Perfect for boosting recovery and building lean muscle. Perfect Amino comes in Powder and Tablet form!
Key Ingredients:
- BCAAs (Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine)
- EAAs (Lysine HCI, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Methionine, Tryptophan)
Key Benefits:
- Supports muscle growth
- Enhances recovery
- Improves overall health
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To Wrap Things Up
In the battle of EAA vs BCAA, the winner is clear: both!
Each has its unique benefits, and incorporating them into your routine can lead to impressive gains in muscle growth and recovery.
We encourage you to give them a shot and experience the difference in your results and performance firsthand!
Written and Sponsored by Leonard Shemtob
Leonard Shemtob is President of Strong Supplements and a published author. Leonard has been in the supplement space for over 20 years, specializing in fitness supplements and nutrition. Leonard appears on many podcasts, written over 100 articles about supplements and has studied nutrition, supplementation and bodybuilding.
Leonard's articles have been published in many top publications around the web. Leonard enjoys weight training, playing basketball and yoga, and also enjoys hiking. In his free time he studies and works on improving himself. For more detailed information, visit his official blog.
EAA vs BCAA FAQs
Related Articles
Read More About Amino Acids & Fitness
- Wolfe, R. R. (2017). Branched-chain amino acids and muscle protein synthesis in humans: Myth or reality? Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 30. doi:10.1186/s12970-017-0184-9
- Mero, A. (1999). Leucine supplementation and intensive training. Sports Medicine, 27(6), 347-358. doi:10.2165/00007256-199927060-00001
- Jäger, R., Kerksick, C. M., Campbell, B. I., Cribb, P. J., Wells, S. D., Skwiat, T. M., ... & Antonio, J. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 14(1), 20. doi:10.1186/s12970-017-0177-8