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The use of EAAs has been on the rise, but people are still confused about why they can\u2019t supplement with any amino acid supplement.<\/p>\n
For years, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) have been the go-to for recovery and muscle growth. Then, all of a sudden, research started being published, showing that the \u201cBig 3\u201d BCAAs we have come to love (leucine, isoleucine, and valine) when taken alone may not deliver the results you desire.<\/p>\n
In fact, what they are finding is that BCAAs need to be combined with all of the essential amino acids (EAAs) in order to truly make a difference.<\/p>\n
Before we dive into why EAAs are so important, let\u2019s get a better understanding of what the nine essential amino acids are. Below is the complete list.<\/p>\n
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used to treat or diagnose any condition. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before starting any exercise program, making changes to your nutrition plan, or adding any new dietary supplements into your current regimen.<\/em><\/p>\n First and foremost, I\u2019m not here to tell you that BCAAs are a total waste of money and that you\u2019re buying junk if you purchase a standalone branched-chain amino acid product. If you have and are using BCAAs, don\u2019t toss them in the trash. BCAAs are still helpful (just less effective than EAAs).<\/p>\n What I\u2019m trying to get across is that research has looked at amino acid supplementation and burst the BCAA bubble with findings that we need to take in EAAs to achieve the full benefits of amino acid supplementation for building lean muscle mass.<\/p>\n Research looking at BCAA supplements has shown that while a 2:1:1 ratio of branched-chain amino acids can help increase muscle growth, it\u2019s marginal compared to the use of essential amino acids. Recent research has also shown that EAAs, when combined with protein, can double lean muscle growth compared to BCAAs alone. That\u2019s actually quite substantial when you think about it. You could be cutting your results in half if you stick with a standalone BCAA supplement.<\/p>\n It\u2019s safe to say that most people who exercise regularly and focus on resistance training follow up their workouts with some sort of post-workout nutrition \u2013 generally in the form of a protein shake or whole food meal. Incorporating EAAs into your post-workout supplement routine could further heighten your ability to build the quality lean muscle mass you\u2019ve been looking for.<\/p>\n That being said, post-workout isn\u2019t the only use for EAAs. You can incorporate essential amino acids into your pre-workout supplement regimen or use them intra-workout to support overall recovery.<\/p>\n While protein is often discussed as being necessary for muscle growth, it\u2019s actually the breakdown of that protein into amino acids, which helps build muscle.<\/p>\n It should also be noted that EAAs are a great supplement to include in your regimen if you are on a cut. In a caloric deficit, your body can tap into lean muscle tissue and break it down for energy. To help prevent that, you can include essential amino acids in your daily routine to support an anabolic state and preserve your hard-earned lean muscle mass.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\nMaximize Muscle Growth (and MORE) Through the Use of EAAs<\/h2>\n
Build Quality Muscle Mass (FASTER)<\/h3>\n