Amino Acids covers single and blended aminos for training: BCAA capsules and powders, complete EAA drinks, L-glutamine, beta-alanine, and performance aminos such as L-carnitine and taurine. Most of the range is Trec Nutrition, alongside BAD ASS, Dorian Yates, Fitness Authority, 10X Athletic, Essensey and NOW Foods.
BCAAs are three of the nine essential amino acids, leucine, isoleucine and valine, usually in a 2:1:1 ratio; BAD ASS BCAA uses a leucine-heavy 8:1:1. EAAs supply all nine, so they are the more complete choice if you want an amino drink between meals. For example, Trec BCAA High Speed is mixed at 10 g (2 scoops) in 300 ml of water, twice a day on training days, while Dorian Yates Hit EAA provides the full set. If your diet already gives you enough protein, neither is essential: a protein shake also contains all the essential amino acids.
None of these amino acids carries an authorised health claim in the UK, so we describe them by what they contain and how the label says to take them. For protein, which contributes to a growth in muscle mass, see Protein & Weight Gain.
Usually not. Whey and other complete proteins already contain all nine essential amino acids, including the BCAAs. Aminos suit people who want a light drink during training rather than a shake.
It is the ratio of leucine to isoleucine to valine. 2:1:1 is the classic ratio, while 8:1:1, used in BAD ASS BCAA, puts far more of the blend into leucine.
The tingling, called paraesthesia, is a common and harmless reaction to beta-alanine, especially at larger single doses. Taking the label amount in smaller split doses usually reduces it.
Follow the label: the Trec, 10X Athletic and FA powders are measured by the scoop and mixed into water or a shake, while Trec L-Glutamine T6 comes as capsules.
Strictly, L-carnitine is made in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine, which is why it sits with the aminos. It comes here as liquids, capsules and sugar-free gummies.
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