If you are a  fitness freak, then you must be well-aware of BCAA supplements for muscle growth. While you have been consuming it regularly, have you ever wondered if you’re taking that supplement at the right time? If your answer to this question is a big yes, then this blogpost is for you. Outlined below are some key facts to keep in mind about BCAAs, especially when it comes to supplement timing for the best results.

What Are BCAAs?

Branched-Chain Amino Acids are a unique category of essential amino acid supplements (which are necessary for protein formation). They formulate one of the most integral protein synthesis steps.

BCAAs are essential amino acids, which means your body needs to get them from food or supplements. Of these 3 amino acids, Leucine is typically considered the most important for muscle growth. All 3 are essential, though, which is why they’re often sold together as BCAA for women and men.

Why Do BCAAs Matter?

There are lots of reasons why people consume food sources of BCAAs or choose to supplement with BCAAs. The following are some of the most common ones:

• Increase Muscle Building. 

As you know from the information mentioned above, BCAA supplements are helpful for those who are trying to build muscle mass. This is because Leucine stimulates the process of muscle protein synthesis, which is the process the body uses to repair muscle damage, especially damage that occurs during workouts. 

• Reduce Muscle Soreness.

Is muscle soreness good? Not at all. In addition to helping repair muscle damage, BCAAs also minimize the damage that contributes to muscle soreness. If you train hard or train multiple times per day, BCAAs can reduce the soreness and stiffness you experience so you can perform at a high level during every training session. 

• Supplement Vegan and Vegetarian Diets.

BCAAs and other essential amino acids are not considered as complete protein sources (at least not in sufficient quantities) that come from plants. Because of this, many plant-based proteins are considered incomplete proteins. 

• Prevent Muscle Loss While Dieting. 

When you’re eating in a calorie deficit (i.e., eating less than your body burns), you may lose some muscle mass. This is especially likely if you’re doing intense workouts or are undergoing exercise fatigue. If you want to maintain muscle mass (or even add a bit) while also trying to get lean, BCAAs can help. They provide the amino acids you need to support muscle repair and prevent potential losses. 

Timing of your BCAA Intake

Time-wise Frequency of BCAA

Technically, you can take BCAA supplements at any time. Given the BCAA powder uses, most people prefer to take them before a workout, though. Taking BCAAs before training will help you to enjoy more energy and stamina while exercising. They can also help to prevent muscle breakdown during your workouts. If you’re going to take BCAAs before your workout, aim to do so about 15-30 minutes before you start training. This gives your supplement time to kick in and help you see the best results. Add them to your pre-workout drink, or consider using a pre-workout supplement that already contains BCAAs to make the process even easier.

Day-wise Frequency of BCAA

You can safely take BCAAs on a daily basis. If you’re using a BCAA supplement to reach your goals and experience the benefits outlined above, taking them daily will likely help you to see the best results. Your body uses BCAAs to carry out a variety of functions, including muscle repair and muscle building. Regular supplementation will help you to maintain appropriate levels and avoid potential muscle loss or amino acid deficiencies. 

We hope this helped. Start your fitness journey now with MN’s BCAA!