What exactly are BCAAs anyway?

BCAAs have become a staple of the dietary supplement industry. But while hardcore bodybuilders and fitness fanatics might have a clear understanding of what BCAAs are, many casual enthusiasts might still have some uncertainties.

BCAA is an acronym for Branched Chain Amino Acids, which includes 3 different amino acids with similar structures: Leucine, isoleucine and valine. Amino Acids are the building blocks of protein, which is crucial for packing on muscle. The body does not produce BCAAs on its own, but it can absorb them from foods that contain proteins, such as meat, eggs, milk, soy protein, brown rice and cashew nuts, to name a few. So if you have a diet that’s high in protein sources, then you probably don’t need to take BCAA supplements.

There are nine essential amino acids in total, but Leucine, isoleucine and valine are the most important for building muscle. From this important trio, leucine is the most vital for adding bulk. These amino acids trigger MPS -- or muscle protein synthesis -- and work to protect and repair muscle tissue, prevent fatigue, build muscle and prevent muscle breakdown. In a nutshell, BCAAs fuel muscle gains, repair muscle tissue, enhance endurance and optimize recovery, which is why it’s such an essential supplement.

BCAAs are only useful for muscular applications. They won’t help you lose weight like a fat burner or increase energy like a pre-workout formula. When shopping for a BCAA supplement, the ratio of amino acids is extremely important. For that reason, a BCAA with a ratio of 2:1:1 has been found to be the most useful by several studies. Some manufacturers try to boost the leucine in their BCAA supplement with ratios like 10:1:1, but more is not always better. Having the perfect balance, like Myokem's mTorPro, is crucial to optimize your gains and repair muscles.

Another important factor in BCAA usage is when you take it. To get the most benefit from your BCAA, you should consume it before, during or after working out. Each time frame has different benefits. Taking BCAAs before a workout can help fight off fatigue. Consuming them during your workout helps fight fatigue and nourishes your muscles while you’re working out. If you decide to wait until just after you’re finished, those BCAAs can help your muscle fibers heal up for maximum recovery. Regardless of when you take your BCAAs, the recommended minimal dosage is 5 grams.

Most BCAA supplements come in one of two forms: Powdered or tablet. With the tablets, it’s much more difficult for your body to absorb those amino acids, so the powdered forms are your best choice.

Myokem's mTorPro is easily the highest quality BCAA supplement on the market today. They use premium, tested and verified ingredients for their tried and trusted formula, which delivers 10.5 grams of essential amino acids with each serving along with 5g of instantized BCAAs. The addition of Astragin to the blend increases the absorption of potassium, BCAA, amino acids and other vitamins and nutrients for maximum bioavailability.

So to summarize, if you’re looking to lose weight or want an energy boost, BCAAs won’t help you. But if you want to build a muscular, chiseled physique, then BCAAs can really make a big difference for you.