Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA

Posted on 2005-12-30 20:01:01 in Amino Acids |

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The branched-chain amino acids (BCAA’s) leucine, isoleucine, and valine are used by the body to manufacture proteins. Muscles have a high content of BCAA’s. Adequate amounts of BCAA’s are usually obtained from the diet; however, injury can increase the body’s need for BCAA’s in order to repair damage. BCAA’s are found in all protein-containing foods, but the best sources are red meat and dairy products.

ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:

BCAA’s are often used for their muscle-building properties; however, the majority of evidence obtained from clinical studies suggests that they do not improve performance, reduce fatigue, or increase the body’s muscle/fat ratio. Results of a 1999 study suggest that BCAA’s might improve the symptoms of tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder caused by long-term use of antipsychotic drugs. Other studies have found that supplementary BCAA’s may reduce the symptoms of Lou Gehrig’s disease (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)), and improve the appetite of cancer patients.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:

There are no known DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS for leucine and valine; however, a severe deficiency of isoleucine may cause hypoglycemia (this is extremely unlikely).

THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:

The therapeutic dose is 1-5 g per day, depending upon requirements.

MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL:

The maximum safe level has not been established. When taken in excess BCAA’s are simply converted into other amino acids, thus they are generally regarded as safe, even in large doses.

SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:

People with kidney or liver disease should consult their doctor before taking supplementary leucine, isoleucine, or valine. BCAA’s can reduce the effectiveness of anti-Parkinson’s drugs, for example levodopa.


Health Headlines

In a lab animal model, booming gut flora spawned by the Western diet is linked to obesity.
International study reaffirms importance of resolving the income gap between the richest and poorest people in developed countries.
Switzerland-based research team assesses the metabolic effects of dark chocolate consumption on energy, gut microbiota, and stress hormones.
UCLA researchers find disability rates in Americans entering their 60s are on the rise, potentially fueled by the overweight/obesity epidemic.
Genetic clues to longevity discovered among a homogenous ethnic population.
Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center (USA) researchers find that a loss of muscle strength raises risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and mild cognitive impairment.
Stroke risk may rise in those with common infectious pathogens such as Chlamydia pneumoniae, Helicobacter pylori, and herpes simplex viruses.
First study in humans links bisphenol A (BPA) exposure to male sexual function problems.
Simple steps in the community can promote walking among residents.
Study finds that people who are dissatisfied with their workplace bosses not only take more sick leave, but are at increased risk of suffering a heart attack.
Looking for an Anti-aging Doctor?

upcoming Events

U.S. Events
congresses
Las Vegas
fellowships
fellowships
symposium
workshops
  • Advanced Hormone Symposium
    Chicago, IL | Oct. 8-10, 2010

VIDEO: Brain Age Workshop
Dr. Eric Braverman, Director of The Place for Achieving Total Health (PATH Medical), Chairs the Brain Age Workshop taking place Dec. 9, 2009. Held in conjunction with the Winter Session of the 17th Annual World Congress on Anti-Aging Medicine & Regenerative Biomedical Technologies. The Brain Age Workshop features presentations on Brain Mind Assessment via Neuropsychological Analysis, Movement Deficiency Syndrome, Hormones and the Brain, Nootropic Drug Mechanisms, and Traumatic Brain Injury. View this video to learn about Dr. Braverman’s brain-based model of aging and age modulation.

International Events
See all events »