BCAAs (Sport)

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia impairs self-care ability in older adults. While branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)/leucine enhance muscle protein synthesis and resistance training promotes muscle growth, the combined effect on sarcopenia remains unclear. This meta-analysis evaluates whether combining resistance training with BCAA-rich supplements synergistically improves body composition and function in sarcopenic elders. METHODS: We systematically searched four databases and analyzed outcomes using Stata 18.0. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated via random-effects models. RESULTS: Twelve randomized trials (n = 459) were included. Only skeletal muscle index significantly improved with combined intervention vs. control (SMD = 0.337, 95 % CI [0.035,0.639], p = 0.029). No significant differences were found in: hand grip strength (SMD = 0.289, p = 0.080), 30-s chair stand (SMD = -0.794, p = 0.169), SPPB (SMD = -0.321, p = 0.124), walking speed (SMD = 0.344, p = 0.283), knee extension strength (SMD = 0.332,p = 0.328), total lean mass (SMD = 0.024, p = 0.908), or fat mass (SMD = -0.036, p = 0.866; all p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: BCAA supplementation post-resistance training only increased skeletal muscle index in older adults, without improving other functional or body composition outcomes.

Previous studies have reported the positive effects of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) supplementation on lowering plasma markers of muscle damage and subjective soreness after resistance exercise. However, a variety of factors can potentially moderate its efficacy. This meta-analysis aimed to summarize the evidence regarding the effect of BCAAs supplementation on plasma muscle damage markers and soreness after resistance exercise in only trained males, by considering the plasma lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK). Randomized controlled trials were identified through a computerized literature search for the period 2010-2020. The pooled data were analyzed with the random-effects model and heterogeneity using I2. Cochrane Collaboration tools was used for the assessment of risk of bias. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. A positive effect was found for CK at <24, 24, and 48 h after exercise and for muscle soreness at <24 h only. However, the positive effect was not evident for plasma LDH at any follow-up time. Different outcomes for post-exercise responses may suggest that BCAAs supplementation can attenuate muscle damage and ameliorate muscle soreness after resistance exercise in trained males.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by cognitive decline and associated metabolic disturbances, including altered amino acid profiles. This study investigated the effects of probiotic supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus HA-114 and Bifidobacterium longum R0175 on serum amino acid levels in adults with mild to moderate AD. In a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 60 participants (aged 50-90 years) were assigned to three groups: L. rhamnosus (n = 20), B. longum (n = 20), or placebo (n = 20). Serum amino acids were analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (LC). Changes in total amino acids, Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs), and aromatic amino acids (AAAs) were assessed as the primary outcomes. A significant interaction effect was found between time and group for serum amino acids. Compared to placebo, the B. longum group showed a significant increase in total amino acids (difference: 2132.67 µmol/L, 95% CI: 464.06-3801.28; p = 0.01), BCAAs (difference: 255.15 µmol/L, 95% CI: 53.01-457.30; p = 0.01), and AAAs (difference: 374.34 ng/ml, 95% CI: 57.45-691.23; p = 0.02). The L. rhamnosus group also showed a significant increase in BCAAs compared to placebo (difference: 206.08 µmol/L, 95% CI: 3.94-408.23; p = 0.04). The greatest improvements were consistently observed in the B. longum group across all primary outcome measures. Probiotic supplementation, particularly with B. longum, significantly improved serum amino acid profiles in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. These findings support the potential of specific probiotic strains to address metabolic imbalances in AD through gut-brain axis modulation. Trial Registration: IRCT number: 20210513051277N1 (2021-05-27). © 2025. The Author(s).

Background: Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs, isoleucine, leucine, and valine) are commonly applied to promote muscle protein synthesis. However, the effects of BCAAs on exercise-induced substrate metabolism, performance and post-exercise fatigue during endurance exercise remain unclear. Methods: In a double-blind cross-over design, eleven active males completed 1 h of constant load exercise (CLE) at 60% VO2max power followed by a time to exhaustion (TTE) test at 80% VO2max power after supplementation with BCAAs or placebo on consecutive three days. During exercise, indirect calorimetry was used to measure the carbohydrate (CHO) and fat oxidation rate, as well as the cycling efficiency. In addition, rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were obtained at interval times during the whole period. Fingertips and venous blood (n = 8) were collected for the measurement of metabolic responses at different time points during exercise. Results: Compared to the placebo group, the fat oxidation rate was significantly higher after 20 and 30 min of CLE (p < 0.05). The CHO oxidation rates showed a significant increase in the BCAA group during TTE (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, the cycling efficiency during TTE was significantly improved (p < 0.05). Interestingly, VAS significantly decreased post-exercise in the BCAA group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the levels of blood insulin between the two groups were significantly higher in the post-exercise period compared to the pre-exercise periods (p < 0.001), while insulin levels were significantly lower in the post-exercise period with supplemental BCAAs compared to the placebo (p < 0.001). BCAAs also enhanced the levels of blood ammonia in the post-exercise period compared to the fasting and pre-exercise periods (BCAA: p < 0.01; Placebo: p < 0.001). However, in the post-exercise period, blood ammonia levels were significantly lower in the BCAA group than in the placebo group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study shows the critical role of BCAAs during exercise in active males and finds that BCAA supplementation enhanced fat oxidation during the CLE, increased carbohydrate oxidation and exercise efficiency du

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)-containing electrolyte beverage (AE) on water-electrolyte balance, muscle damage, time to finish the final 5 km, and muscle strength compared to a standard commercially available carbohydrate-electrolyte sports beverage (CE), pure water (W), and no rehydration (N). METHODS: Fourteen trained male participants (20 ± 2 years old) completed four randomized 21 km running trials. The participants were instructed to consume their drink (150 mL W, 150 mL CE, or 150 mL AE) or no rehydration (N) at 5 km, 10 km, and 15 km. Body mass and muscle strength were assessed, and blood samples were collected before and after exercise. Perceptual scales were administered during and after running. Blood electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, and chloride) and creatine kinase (CK) concentration were analyzed. RESULTS: The change in plasma volume with AE was significantly smaller than that with N (p < 0.05). Consuming AE maintained the best potassium balance (p < 0.05). Twenty-four hours after exercise, serum CK concentrations significantly elevated in N, W, and CE (p < 0.05), but did not reach statistical significance in the AE group (p > 0.05). Compared to N, consuming AE resulted in significantly less soreness 24 h after exercise (p < 0.05). There was no difference in time to finish the final 5 km (p > 0.05). Maximal voluntary isometric force output was significantly lower after exercise with N and W (p < 0.05) but not with CE or AE (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Consuming a BCAAs-containing sports beverage during a 21 km run can help reduce dehydration, maintain potassium balance, lower muscle damage, and prevent the decline in lower limb strength after 21 km running.

BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common condition that is characterized by metabolic impairments. Exercise therapy has proven effective in improving the physiological and psychological states of patients with T2DM; however, the influence of different exercise modalities on metabolic profiles is not fully understood. This study first aimed to investigate the metabolic changes associated with T2DM among patients and then to evaluate the potential physiological effects of different exercise modalities (Tai Chi and brisk walking) on their metabolic profiles. METHODS: This study included 20 T2DM patients and 11 healthy subjects. Patients were randomly allocated to either the Tai Chi or walking group to perform Dijia simplified 24-form Tai Chi or brisk walking (80-100 m/min), with 90 minutes each time, three times per week for 12 weeks, for a total of 36 sessions. The healthy group maintained daily living habits without intervention. Glycemic tests were conducted at the baseline and after 12 weeks. Serum and urine samples were collected for untargeted metabolomic analyses at baseline and 12 weeks to examine the differential metabolic profiles between T2DM and healthy subjects, and the metabolic alterations of T2DM patients before and after exercise therapy. RESULTS: Compared to the healthy group, T2DM patients exhibited metabolic disturbances in carbohydrates (fructose, mannose, galactose, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis), lipids (inositol phosphate), and amino acids (arginine, proline, cysteine, methionine, valine, leucine, and isoleucine) metabolism, including 20 differential metabolites in the serum and six in the urine. After exercise, the glycemic results showed insignificant changes. However, patients who practiced Tai Chi showed significant improvements in their post-treatment metabolic profiles compared to baseline, with nine serum and six urine metabolites, including branch-chained amino acids (BCAAs); while those in the walking group had significantly altered nine serum and four urine metabolites concerning steroid hormone biosynthesis and arachidonic acid metabolism compared to baseline. CONCLUSION: T2DM patients displayed impaired carbohydrate,

7. J Neurotrauma. 2024 Jun;41(11-12):1299-1309. doi: 10.1089/neu.2023.0433. Epub 2024 Apr 11. Head Injury Treatment With Healthy and Advanced Dietary Supplements: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of the Tolerability, Safety, and Efficacy of Branched Chain Amino Acids in the Treatment of Concu

BACKGROUND: Cannabinoid-containing products are marketed to athletes as promoting recovery, in spite of a lack of data on their safety and effects. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, repeated-dose pilot study tested the safety, tolerability, and preliminary effects on recovery of a formulation containing cannabidiol (CBD; 35 mg), cannabigerol (CBG; 50 mg), beta caryophyllene (BCP; 25 mg), branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs; 3.8 g), and magnesium citrate (420 mg). METHODS: Exercise-trained individuals (N = 40) underwent an experimental induction of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and completed follow-up visits 24-, 48-, and 72-hours post-DOMS. Participants were randomized to active or placebo formulation, and consumed the formulation twice per day for 3.5 days. RESULTS: There was one adverse event (AE) in the active group (diarrhea) and two AEs in placebo (dry mouth; eye rash/swollen eye). There was 100% self-reported compliance with formulation consumption across the two groups. For the primary outcome of interest, the estimate of effect for ratings of average soreness/discomfort 72 hours post-DOMS between active and placebo groups was -1.33 (85% confidence interval = -2.55, -0.10), suggesting moderate evidence of a treatment difference. The estimate of effect for the outcome of ratings of interference of soreness, discomfort, or stiffness on daily activities at work or home 48 hours post-DOMS was -1.82 (95% confidence interval = -3.64, -0.01), indicating a treatment difference of potential clinical importance. There was no significant effect between active and placebo groups on objective measures of recovery, sleep quality, or mood disturbance. CONCLUSIONS: The tested formulation reduced interference of DOMS on daily activities, demonstrating its improvement on a functional aspect of recovery.

BACKGROUND: Nutrition plays a key role in training and athletic performance and dietary supplements can make a small, but potentially valuable, contribution to achieving peak athletic performance. This study is the first to investigate the effects of supplementation from the combination of BCAAs, L-citrulline, and A-GPC on exercise performance. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, crossover study 30 male trained cyclists (age: 43.7 ± 8.5 years) completed a 20 km cycling time trial (TT) test and a high intensity endurance cycling (HIEC) test following a 7-day supplementation period with either a supplement containing 8 g BCAAs, 6 g L-citrulline, and 300 mg A-GPC or a placebo (15 g maltodextrin). For each trial, mean values for time to completion, peak and average power output, OMNI rating of perceived exertion, and visual analogue scale (VAS) responses on perceived exertion were computed for the 20 km TT test. Mean values for time to fatigue and VAS responses on perceived exertion were computed for the HIEC test. Procedures for dietary intake and exercise patterns were implemented to achieve consistency throughout the study period. RESULTS: There was a significant increase (p = .003) in peak power in the 20 km TT (354.27 ± 87.88 and 321.67 ± 63.65, for supplement and placebo trials, respectively) and a significant increase (p = .001) in time to fatigue in the HIEC test (0:19:49 ± 0:11:13 min and 0:14:33 ± 0:09:59 min, for supplement and placebo trials, respectively) with the test supplement compared to the placebo. With the test supplement, there was an average increase in TT peak power of 11% and an average increase in time to fatigue of 36.2% in the HIEC test compared to the placebo. There was no significant improvement in time to completion, average power, OMNI rating of perceived exertion, or VAS responses on perceived exertion in the TT test and no significant improvement in VAS measures of perceived exertion in the HIEC test. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of BCAAs, L-citrulline, and A-GPC used in this study improves cycling performance and may be useful for individuals seeking to improve athletic performance, particularly in disciplines requiring lower

BCAAs supplementation has been widely used for post-exercise recovery. However, no evidence is currently available to answer the question of whether BCAAs supplementation can attenuate muscle damage and ameliorate recovery after a bout of change of direction (COD) sprinting, which is an exercise motion frequently used during team sport actions. This study aimed to assess the effect of BCAAs supplementation on muscle damage markers, subjective muscle soreness, neuromuscular performance, and the vascular health of collegiate basketball players during a 72 h recovery period after a standardized COD protocol. Participants orally received either BCAAs (0.17 g/kg BCAAs + 0.17 g/kg glucose) or placebo (0.34 g/kg glucose) supplementation before and immediately after a COD exercise protocol in a randomized, crossover, double-blind, and placebo-controlled manner. Creatine kinase increased immediately after exercise and peaked at 24 h, muscle soreness remained elevated until 72 h, whilst arterial stiffness decreased after exercise for both supplemented conditions. A negligibly lower level of interleukin-6 was found in the BCAAs supplemented condition. In conclusion, the results of this study do not support the benefits of BCAAs supplementation on mitigating muscle damage and soreness, neuromuscular performance, and arterial stiffness after COD for basketball players.

Due to the utilization of milk proteins such as whey protein (WP) and casein as sports nutrition ergogenic aids, the present study investigated the effects of the association of WP and casein in a ratio of 80:20, a similar ratio of human breast milk, on blood branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) profiles, markers of protein metabolism and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), after a single bout of resistance exercise. A double-blind, crossover and acute study was carried out with ten men (age 29 ± 8 years; BMI: 25.4 ± 2.9 kg/m2; 77 ± 12 kg; 1.74 ± 0.09 m); each one consumed the following supplements randomly, one per session: WP, CAS (casein), WP/CAS (80% WP/20% CAS), CAS/WP (80% CAS/20% WP) and PLA (placebo). They were also subjected to the following evaluations: the one repetition maximum (1RM) test; resistance training session; blood extraction during each session to determine the BCAA profile; two food records; 3-day evaluation of DOMS (24 h, 48 h and 72 h) and nitrogen balance in each treatment. The intervention resulted in similar nitrogen urinary, creatinine and urea plasma levels and showed a positive nitrogen balance in all the trials. Regarding the BCAAs, the peak occurred at 60 min post-ingestion and remained higher until 120 min for WP, WP/CAS and CAS/WP. The DOMS was significantly lower for WP, WP/CAS and CAS/WP compared to the CAS and PLA treatments. There were no advantages in the association of WP and CAS in the BCAAs profile when compared to WP itself, but it induced a lower DOMS compared to CAS and PLA (Clinical Trial registration number: clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04648384).

This study aimed to review the efficacy of commonly used supplements on the health status and performance of football players. We searched several databases for relevant publications published in English up to June 2024 using keywords such as nutritional supplementation, performance, football, and football players. The available literature indicated that l-arginine supplements may improve cardiovascular function, ventilation, the serum level of lactate, and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2 Max) of football players. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) may improve multiple-choice reaction time. Creatine supplements improve jumping, sprinting, change of direction speed, and reduce fatigue. Among the vitamins, vitamin D improves the serum level of injury-related hormones such as cortisol and testosterone. B vitamins reduce the level of blood lactate in the recovery periods. Vitamin E and vitamin C may improve performance by decreasing oxidative stress and increasing the antioxidant capacity and oxygen delivery to exercising skeletal muscles. Iron supplementation improves endurance capacity. Further studies are warranted to confirm the effects of the supplements on football players, to identify the appropriate dosage of the supplements and also to determine their mechanism of action. © 2025 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are oxidized in the muscle and result in stimulating anabolic signals-which in return may optimize performance, body composition and recovery. Meanwhile, among athletes, the evidence about BCAA supplementation is not clear. The aim of this study was to review the effects of BCAAs in athletic populations. The research was conducted in three databases: Web of Science (all databases), PubMed and Scopus. The inclusion criteria involved participants classified both as athletes and people who train regularly, and who were orally supplemented with BCAAs. The risk of bias was individually assessed for each study using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2.0). From the 2298 records found, 24 studies met the inclusion criteria. Although BCAAs tended to activate anabolic signals, the benefits on performance and body composition were negligible. On the other hand, studies that included resistance participants showed that BCAAs attenuated muscle soreness after exercise, while in endurance sports the findings were inconsistent. The protocols of BCAA supplements differed considerably between studies. Moreover, most of the studies did not report the total protein intake across the day and, consequently, the benefits of BCAAs should be interpreted with caution.

BACKGROUND: Despite the prevalence of traumatic brain injury (TBI), pharmaceutical treatment options for brain injury remain limited. However, nutritional intervention (such as with branched chain amino acids [BCAAs]) has emerged as a promising treatment option for TBI. OBJECTIVES: (1) To determine whether TBI patients have lower levels of endogenous BCAAs postinjury; and (2) to evaluate whether post-TBI BCAA supplementation improves clinical outcome. DESIGN: A systematic review of primary research articles examining the relationship between BCAAs and TBI recovery indexed in Ovid/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO. RESULTS: Of the 11 studies identified, 3 examined the effects of TBI on endogenous BCAA levels and consistently reported that BCAA concentrations were depressed postinjury. The remaining 8 studies examined the effects of BCAA supplementation on TBI outcome in animals (n = 3) and humans (n = 5). The animal studies (in mild-to-moderate TBI) showed that BCAAs improved post-TBI outcome. Similar results were found in human trials (conducted primarily in patients with severe TBI), with 4 of the 5 studies reporting improved outcome with BCAA supplementation. CONCLUSION: Although our review demonstrates an overall positive association between BCAAs and TBI outcome, the evidence of the efficacy of supplementation has been limited to severe TBI. To date, there is insufficient evidence to determine the benefits of BCAAs in mild TBI. Given the high frequency of mild TBI and the promise of BCAAs as an intervention in severe TBI, future research should examine the effects of BCAAs in milder brain injury.