Just as proteins are the building blocks of muscle, amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. High Potency Amino Acids are one of the most vital nutrients available. Branched Chain Amino Acids are involved in a wide variety of biological reactions in the body. Some of the imortant jobs of amino acids are supporting protein synthesis, the formulation of different compounds, immune system and enzyme maintenance, energy production, hormone activation and tissue growth and repair. As you can see, these are some pretty important actions to be taken care of by BCAAs.
Exercise and training however, causes a breakdown in amino acids. Amino Acids are often added to protein supplements and meal replacements for this very reason. There are 23 different amino acids and various combinations made up in "strings" that comprise protein. Only 3 have been categorized as Branch Chain Amino Acids or BCAAs. Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine. These BCAAs are important because they are highly anabolic and valuable to protecting muscle. They are called essential amino acids because they cannot be made by the body. An adequate balance of amino acids within the body is necessary for health and maintaining lean muscle mass. Amino acids can be taken in pill, liquid or powder form.