What are BCAAs?
BCAAs are three amino acids: leucine, isoleucine and valine. They are usually sold as a flavoured powder to sip during or after training. The ratio on the label (2:1:1, 4:1:1 or 8:1:1) tells you how much leucine there is compared with the other two.
BCAAs or EAAs?
EAAs contain all nine essential amino acids, including the three BCAAs. If you already drink a protein shake, you are getting BCAAs from it too.
Compare grams of BCAAs per serving and servings per tub to work out value. See also intra-workout and glutamine.
BCAAs: questions
What does 2:1:1 mean on a BCAA label?
Two parts leucine to one part isoleucine and one part valine.
When do people take BCAAs?
Most sip them during or after training. Follow the directions on the pack.
Are EAAs better than BCAAs?
EAAs include all nine essential amino acids, of which BCAAs are three. Which suits you depends on the rest of your diet.