- 1Fast400 BCAA's are combined in a precise 2:1:1 ratio of
Leucine:Isoleucine:Valine.
- Stimulate Protein Synthesis
- Prevent Muscle Breakdown
- Energy/Recovery
What
are BCAA's ?
BCAA’s are Branched Chain Amino Acids consisting 3 essential amino
acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They are considered essential
amino acids because human beings cannot survive unless these amino
acids are present in the diet.
They are called BCAA's because they structurally branch off another
chain of atoms instead of forming a line. Together they comprise
approx. 1/3 of human muscle tissue. The BCAA's consist of 3 essential
amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine.
Studies have shown that BCAA's help to stimulate protein synthesis
and inhibit its breakdown, so BCAA's have powerful anabolic and
anti-catabolic effects on the body.
The Function Of
BCAA'S
They act as nitrogen carriers which assist the muscles in synthesizing
other amino acids needed for anabolic muscle action. In simpler terms,
BCAA's combine simpler amino acids to form a complex whole muscle
tissue. In this action, BCAA's stimulate production of insulin, the
main function of which is to allow circulating blood sugar to be taken
up by the muscle cells and used as a source of energy. This insulin
production promotes amino acid uptake by the muscle.
How Do BCAA'S
Work?
During intense weight training the body is normally in a highly
catabolic condition. At this time glycogen stores are being rapidly
depleted and the liver in turn must synthesize glucose by a conversion
of L-Alanine. Alanine makes up over half of the amino acid content
released from muscles during exercise.
The release of BCAA's is generally recognized as the signal to the body
to stop protein syntheses in the muscles, especially during times of
stress. Providing the Branch Chain Amino Acids, especially during those
times of stress may profoundly affect this signal and allow protein
synthesis to continue onward.
How Much and
When Should You Take Amino Acids?
With BCAA's 4-8 grams before a work out and 4-8 grams after is optimal.
Lesser amounts are effective but if increased performance and recovery
are needed a higher dosage is more effective. Taking BCAA's immediately
before or during a strenuous workout or cardio session will increase
performance.
Taking them after with a post work out meal or recovery drink will help
speed the replacement of BCAA's in the muscles, speeding muscle
recovery and preventing overtraining. For optimum results in supplement
form, it is desirable to take your BCAA's separately from the other
amino acid groupings for the fact that they totally dominate the race
for entry into the bodies' systems.