Amino acids make the basic building block of protein within our body. These proteins then give the body the necessary buildup. The same goes with the EAA supplements, aka essential amino acids supplements.
Essential amino acids or EAA supplements are pivotal in maintaining health or athletic performance. These supplements source you with all the needed amino acids, which would otherwise be deficient in your body. This is why health professionals often recommend adding the eaa supplements to their diet.
This article is a complete guide on eaa supplements and how they work with other amino acids already in the human system.
What is Eaa Supplement?
EAA supplements are made with essential amino acids. Essential amino acids represent that class of amino acids generally not synthesized within the body. Therefore, they must be sourced from outside to replenish the amino acid demands for protein synthesis. There are generally nine essential amino acids which include:
- Histidine
- Isoleucine
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Phenylalanine
- Tryptophan
- Threonine
- Valine
- Leucine
Each amino acid individually is significant for various protein syntheses and must be exogenously sourced via food or supplements.
Why Are Eaa Supplements Essential?
When broken down, proteins get converted into constituent amino acids that are not stored inside our bodies. It means they get expelled from the system soon after breaking down.
The body must have those constituent amino acids available to rebuild the specific protein. This is where eaa supplements make their way into the body. Supplementing eaa replenishes the needed amino acids, which were expelled out. To continue the synthesis of protein, we must provide eaa in the form of supplements or via food daily.
Benefits of Eaa Supplements
Increases muscle mass
The muscle-building aspect of eaa supplements is one most pronounced benefits of them. Eaa supplements keep the anabolic balance within the body which is necessary for muscular strength and buildup. Since your body is in a constant state of protein turnover, it is necessary to replenish the body to keep the muscles in shape and strength. These supplements also promote lean muscle mass buildup by burning the fats to replenish the energy demands.
Facilitates muscles recovery
Various research supports the fact that eaa supplements facilitate muscle recovery. They shield the muscles from damage and soreness.
Intense physical activity or exercise results in muscular stress and damage, causing microscopic tears. These amino acids are easily absorbed by the body and transported to the muscles, facilitating the synthesis of proteins and promoting muscle tissue regeneration and growth. EAA supplements can aid muscle recovery by providing the necessary amino acids, leading to improved muscle repair, reduced muscle soreness, and support for post-exercise recovery.
Provides muscular strength
EAA supplements contain essential amino acids, including leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which are known to be crucial for muscle protein synthesis, the process of muscle tissue formation. This, together with other amino acids, helps to achieve the ultimate muscular strength and resilience.
EAA supplements can indirectly enhance muscular strength by supplying additional energy sources. Gluconeogenesis is the process of converting essential amino acids into glucose. This glucose can then be utilized as fuel for the muscles during exercise. EAA supplements can enhance performance and improve muscular strength by providing additional energy, enabling individuals to train at higher intensities.
Helps tissue repair
Collagen is a vital structural protein in connective tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and skin. EAA supplements contain crucial amino acids, such as glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline, necessary for collagen synthesis. Collagen supplements are crucial for the structural integrity and mechanical properties of tissues. EAA supplements facilitate collagen production, thereby assisting in the restoration and renewal of injured connective tissues.
Some essential amino acids, such as arginine and glutamine, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. By modulating the inflammatory response, EAA supplements can help create a favorable environment for tissue repair, reducing excessive inflammation and promoting healing.
Improves mood and sleep
Eaa supplements directly affect the neurotransmitters and hormones regulating the sleep-wake cycle. EAA supplements contain amino acids like tryptophan and phenylalanine, which are precursors to neurotransmitters like serotonin in regulating sleep. Serotonin is a precursor to melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating the sleep-wake cycle.
EAA supplements have the potential to facilitate the synthesis of neurotransmitters and hormones that contribute to relaxation, sleep pattern regulation, and improved sleep quality.
Are Eaa Supplements Safe?
Eaa supplements are generally considered safe and effective if consumed in moderation. It also depends on the health condition.
However, It is crucial to adhere to recommended guidelines and seek advice from a healthcare professional before initiating any new supplementation routine, particularly if you have pre-existing health conditions or are on medication. Selecting reputable brands and products is recommended due to the potential variation in the quality and purity of supplements.
Side effects of Eaa supplements
Eaa supplements are generally safe, but if consumed out of moderation, it results in an overdose, which could result in various side effects.
- Digestive issues
- Allergic reaction
- Kidney and liver issues
- Bipolar disorder
Is Eaa Better Than Bcaa?
Yes, Eaa are better than BCAA.
Supplements containing EAAs (essential amino acids) are preferred over BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) because they supply all nine essential amino acids, not just the three BCAAs (leucine, isoleucine, and valine). In addition to helping with muscle protein synthesis and tissue repair, EAA supplements can improve overall health.
Is Eaa A Steroid?
No, essential amino acid (EAA) supplements do not fall under the category of steroids. EAA supplements are formulated using amino acids that are naturally present and serve as the fundamental constituents of proteins.
Who Should Take Eaa Supplements?
Eaa supplements are generally recommended to the following individuals:
- Athletes
- Older adults
- Individuals with dietary restrictions
- People with muscular issues
- Nutrient deficient people
Who Should Avoid Eaa Supplement?
Despite various health promising effects to multiples, eaa supplements could result in detrimental effects for many. Therefore, people who should be cautious with the use of Eaa supplements include:
- The regular intake of eaa supplements might result in a sugar spike which could be harmful to diabetic people or could affect the efficacy of antidiabetic medications.
- In addition, if the eaa supplement is composed of essential amino acids, it could also result in that particular amino acid buildup which could be harmful. Try to take combination formulas.
- Other than this, people with liver or kidney issues should also avoid eaa supplements because the liver and kidney are where protein gets broken down, and having additional amino acids supplements puts a strain on these organs.
