We are pleased to announce that as of March 4, 2025, an updated Rich Text Editor has been introduced in the MyFitnessPal Community. To learn more about the changes, please click here. We look forward to sharing this new feature with you!

BCAA yay or nay?

2»

Replies

  • jessef593
    jessef593 Posts: 2,272 Member
    What is your purpose for taking it? Are you trying to stimulate protein synthesis, reduce muscular catabolism during extended periods of intense exercise, currently on a severe deficit in preparation for a competition? They give you that 1-3% extra, for the average person who's just a gym goer. I say definitely no, but if you're a serious athlete who needs that extra 1-3% then Id say yes. The only time I use them is during a cut, so that I can preserve as much hard earned muscle as possible. Aside from that I won't waste my money on it.
  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    soba82 wrote: »
    sijomial wrote: »
    Nay - I get adequate protein from my diet.

    That's definitely something I struggle with, but I'm working to correct that. :)

    So get that part right first. Spend the money on protein powder. Or chicken breasts. Or jerky. That's going to account for 90-95% of your improvement and until that's perfect spending money on supplements that might give you the last 3-5% isn't prudent.
  • yungbrah
    yungbrah Posts: 33 Member
    Great to use if you're cutting and have especially long workouts, BUT if you don't have a highly disposable income, that money can be used on something more beneficial.
  • StealthHealth
    StealthHealth Posts: 2,417 Member
    pkulagin12 wrote: »
    Great to use if you're cutting and have especially long workouts, BUT if you don't have a highly disposable income, that money can be used on something more beneficial.

    A nice balanced post. Thanks.
  • lavrn03
    lavrn03 Posts: 235 Member
    I agree with some that say it can just be a mental thing but if so I don't mind the $15/month for a mental boost! My gym buddy, husband and I tried a BCAA at the same time. All 3 of us like it.
    I don't feel that burn as much as before when I go heavy with lifting and when I sprint on treadmill I can last longer in my fast interval.
    So I guess take it if you feel good. Just make sure you have a supplement that also has beta-alanine in it. If it just has leucine, isoleucine, and valine...then I would switch it.
    I use MRM BCAA reload.
  • cajuntank
    cajuntank Posts: 924 Member
    Eric Helms' thoughts on the matter (of course, based off of research and professional coaching)
    http://muscleandstrengthpyramids.com/supplementation-citadel/
This discussion has been closed.

Categories