Amino Acid - L-Isoleucine (BCAA)
"BCAA" is short for Branch Chain Amino Acids. Bonded in a chain configuration, the BCAA's - Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine - collectively form the largest amino section of human protein (about 33% of MUSCLE protein!). Therefore, its use in general, and specifically after training, promotes muscle recovery - whey protein being high in BCAA's, hence its high assigned biological value (100), and widespread use as a supplement. Also, many post-workout drinks (normally 3:1 carbs:protein) now have added BCAA's and added L-Glutamine. Again, as mentioned throughout the site, fulfilling your nutritional requirements - i.e. consuming an adequate quantity of protein daily from varied sources - will far outweigh the benefits of individual amino supplementation.
L-Isoleucine is used in the formation of Haemoglobin (also spelt Hemoglobin) and assists with the regulation of blood sugar and subsequent energy levels.
Contraindications: Kidney or Liver illnesses.
Food Sources: Chicken, Fish, Red Meat, Dairy Products, Eggs, Whey.
Tell me more about:
Amino
Acids
Dietary
Protein
Nitrogen
Balance
Protein
Requirements
Protein
Source Comparisons
Protein
Efficiency Ratio (PER)
Biological
Value (BV)
Net
Protein Utilisation (NPU)
Protein
Fractions
Protein
Supplementation
