BCAA’s vs EAA’s
Protein inside the body is made up of Amino Acids. There are over 20 different Amino Acids in these proteins, 9 of which are Essential Amino Acids (EAA’s) where 3 are Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA’s). BCAA’s & EAA’s are one of the most underrated supplements in our store. Not only do they taste great but can be extremely beneficial with stamina in the gym and muscle recovery.
Here’s the breakdown:
BCAA’s:
What are they for?
Assist recovery by fueling the muscle, allowing for less breakdown and even increasing protein synthesis (muscle growth). BCAA’s are relatively inexpensive and are available in several great tasting flavors.
When to take?
Most commonly, BCAA’s are consumed during a workout to help reduce fatigue and muscle breakdown during exercise. More recent studies show that EAA’s are more beneficial during exercise but more information on EAA’s to follow. If you’re a person who has trouble drinking water during the day, BCAA’s could benefit you by flavoring water without added sugars and calories. They taste AMAZING with ice water!
*pro tip* Most of the BCAA’s we carry also have coconut water powder (you cannot taste the coconut) and potassium added, which helps with hydration. Because of the extra hydration, we like to drink them first thing in the morning to kick start the body since it is easy to become dehydrated overnight.
Who can take BCAA’s?
Just about anyone! Those with sensitivities to potassium and sodium should consult their physician. BCAA’s are normally zero calorie powders and don’t contain sugar. As always, please consult your physician before taking any health and performance supplements.
EAA’s:
What are they for?
Similar to BCAA’s, EAA’s also help prevent muscle breakdown, fatigue reduction, and boost lean muscle growth. These also normally have potassium, coconut water powder, sodium, and magnesium, all helping reduce fatigue, rehydrate, and refuel your body. The main difference with EAA’s is that unlike BCAA’s, you MUST supplement EAA’s as the body cannot produce them on its own. Recent studies have shown that EAA’s are much more potent and beneficial during a workout than BCAA’s alone. All EAA products also contain all three BCAA’s so you’re getting both benefits of BCAA’s and EAA’s in one product.
When to take?
EAA’s can be taken at the same time you would take a normal BCAA product. The only thing to consider is that EAA’s tend to be slightly more expensive, so plan your budget accordingly. Some EAA products, called intra-workouts, are designed to be taken specifically during a workout only and can contain more calories as they have added carbs and tend to have higher dosages of sodium and potassium.
Who can take EAA’s?
Just as BCAA’s, most people could benefit from EAA’s in some form. From morning hydration to intra-workout supplementation, EAA’S are a great option. One thing to note is that some EAA products may have a few calories in them as they do contain more ingredients than a normal BCAA powder. Just be sure to speak with your physician before starting a new supplement regimen.
In closing, whichever option you choose, BCAA’s or EAA’s are fantastic products and can give you a little boost without added stimulants (unless you buy one with caffeine added). Water is great alone, but in our opinion, by adding amino acids, specifically during exercise, is much more beneficial, mostly due to the hydration and recovery benefits. Checkout our store and let us help you find what's right for you!
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