Branched Chain Amino Acids

Branched amino acids are the essential amino acids with non-linear aliphatic side chains. There are three branched chain amino acids, which are known as leucine, isoleucine and valine, all of which play a crucial role in protein synthesis. These three essential amino acids make up about one-third of the skeletal muscles in human body. Like other essential amino acids, leucine, isoleucine and valine cannot be synthesized by our body and hence, has to be derived from the foods. Presently, branched chain amino acids supplements have gained much popularity among athletes, as they can prevent muscle breakdown.

Branched Amino Acids Advantages
These amino acids are basically required for protein synthesis, and repair and maintenance of the muscle tissues. When these amino acid are not sufficient in the body, our body can literally break down the muscles to get them. This can happen while exercising and during periods of extreme stress, when the body needs these three amino acids in larger amounts. Apart from this, each of them is concerned with some specific functions. For example, leucine plays a crucial part in insulin secretion, healing of skin, muscle tissues and bones, while isoleucine is known to regulate the level of blood sugar, and is required for hemoglobin production. Valine on the other hand, facilitates muscle metabolism and repair of tissues. It also helps to maintain the balance of nitrogen in the body.

In general, they are believed to increase endurance and enhance energy, for which their supplementations are so widely used by the athletes to increase exercise performance. Presently, these essential amino acids are used to treat burns, tardive dyskinesia in men and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. They may also prove beneficial for treating acute hepatic encephalopathy, or brain swelling due to liver diseases or severe injury or infection. They may help to lose fat and treat liver problems like, cirrhosis as well. However, their most important benefits are that, they prevent muscle breakdown, especially during exercise, help to repair muscle tissues and conserve the glycogen stored in the muscles.

Dangers of Branched Amino Acid Supplements
Taking excess supplementation of these amino acids may reduce the level of some other essential amino acids. Some people can develop allergic reactions after taking branched amino acid supplements, which can manifest in itching, skin rash or hives, chest pain and breathing difficulties. On observing these signs of allergic reactions, be sure to immediately discontinue the use of the supplements, and talk to your health care provider. Some other minor side effects of branched chain supplements can include, increase in ammonia in the body, excessive tiredness, vomiting and upset stomach. People with certain health conditions like, liver and kidney diseases should be more cautious while using these amino acids supplements.

Generally, these amino acids can be found abundantly in the foods like, meat and dairy products. The foods high in these are, meat, beans and legumes, brown rice, whole wheat, eggs, fish, mushrooms, dairy products, soy protein, lentils, nuts including cashews and almonds and chickpeas. Including these foods in your diet can usually provide the required amount of these amino acids. If however, supplementation is required, then they should be taken only under the guidance of a health care professional. Usually, the supplements of isoleucine are advised to be taken with a correct balance of valine and leucine. However, many supplements combine all these three amino acids, but never forget to consult your physician before taking them.