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Should You Be Taking an Essential Amino Acid Supplement? Here’s What Dietitians Say

From energy boosters to sleeping aids, we can all agree the supplement aisle is stacked. If you do a search for something you’re after, such as reduced muscle pain or hair growth, chances are a few dietary supplements will pop up. Protein has become the most popular macronutrient on the block, and doing a deep dive into sources of protein may lead you to another type of supplement: essential amino acids.

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 Should You Take Amino Acid Supplements?

Amino acid supplements have soared in popularity in recent years. Social-media influencers peddle them with promises that they’ll build muscle, enhance athletic performance, promote weight loss, boost metabolism, and improve mental focus. But they’re not right for everyone. Here’s what to know about the trendy supplements.

Articles of Interest

Amino acid supplements and metabolic health: a potential interplay between intestinal microbiota and systems control

Dietary supplementation of essential amino acids (EAAs) has been shown to promote healthspan. EAAs regulate, in fact, glucose and lipid metabolism and energy balance, increase mitochondrial biogenesis, and maintain immune homeostasis.

BCAA supplements are just hype – here’s a better way to build muscles

So where muscle building is the goal, we support the “food first” approach recommended by the Sports and Exercise Nutrition Register. This means sticking with foods unless you’re struggling to find time to hit the necessary protein levels – in which case, a quick whey shake may be a convenient and effective alternative. Consuming protein-rich foods also contributes to the daily nutritional needs for a range of minerals and vitamins – something often lacking in supplements. Sticking with food will also help you avoid the risk of consuming a “banned” substance through supplementation.

Can these trendy supplements really boost your workout?

It’s the supplement that’s suddenly in every fitness freak’s gym bag. Branched-chain amino acid supplements (BCAAs) are trending among health nuts, who claim they increase muscle growth from exercise, decrease post-workout soreness and boost energy. But experts are divided.

Essential amino acids. More on the most discussed supplement. Myths to debunk and how to use

The human body is an extraordinary machine, in continuous evolution. Some of the protagonists of this process are the amino acids. Known and used for a long time in the field of research and clinical practice; essential amino acids are the key to health. Let’s meet them.

Essential Amino Acids: How to Choose and Use Them Wisely

If you can't get enough protein in your diet through food alone, you may want to consider supplementing with an amino acid.

Essential Amino Acids: How to Choose and Use Them Wisely

If you can't get enough protein in your diet through food alone, you may want to consider supplementing with an amino acid.

Should I Be Taking Amino Acid Supplements When I Work Out?

They can be even more effective than whey protein for building muscle.