Options en | $
  • en
  • $

Cart

No products

$0.00 Shipping
$0.00 Tax
$0.00 Total

Checkout

BCAA's

BCAA stands for branched chain amino acids and is increasingly being recognized as an important supplement in the field of sports nutrition. In short the term refers to three essential amino acids - leucine, isoleucine and valine.

 

Amino acids are widely known as the building blocks of protein. When protein food is eaten it gets digested into individual amino acids and short chains of amino acids that are sufficiently small to be absorbed into the bloodstream. They are then used by the body to build and repair tissues amongst other things.

 

Amino acids are split between those classed as essential and those labelled non-essential. This simply means that essential amino acids cannot be made by the body, whereas non-essential amino acids can. There are nine essential amino acids and each must be obtained from the diet. The nine essential amino acids are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine.

 

Non-essential amino acids are just as important as the essential variety and the term simply means they can be made by the body from vitamins and other amino acids. The non-essential amino acids are alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, cystine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine and tyrosine.

 

The BCAA's are especially important to athletes because they are metabolized in the muscle rather than the liver. This means that they can be used either to build new proteins or be burned as fuel to create energy. Supplementing with BCAA's has been shown to result in measurable gains in both muscle strength and size. Taken before a workout BCAA's can improve performance and delay the onset of fatigue. They also operate as anabolic agents allowing the body to burn fat and not muscle.

 

As a supplement that has no reported side effects, branched chain amino acids offer many benefits to the serious bodybuilder.

 

L- ARGININE:

Arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that the body cannot make naturally. It is found in nuts, seeds, chocolate and raisins.

 

Arginine is used by the body in the execution of many important physiological processes including hormone secretion, output of growth hormone, removal of toxins from the body and enhancement of the immune system. It is also a precursor of nitric oxide which vasodiolates vessels in the body. For this reason arginine is often used to treat conditions such as angina, high blood pressure, cardiac disease, sexual dysfunction and infertility. Recent research has also highlighted arginine's ability to scavenge free radicals, remove bad cholesterol, enhance fat metabolism and regulate salt levels.

 

There are several reasons why arginine appeals to bodybuilders:

 

1. It prevents the retention of water under the skin thus minimizing bloating and helping to create a ripped appearance.

2. It helps the body to retain nitrogen that is essential to the muscle building process.

3. Its vasodilating abilities support muscle growth.

4. It enhances protein synthesis.

5. It helps to boost the immune system allowing harder training and minimizing the minor illnesses that come from overtraining.

 

With any amino acid supplement overdosing can lead to weakness and nausea so care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.

 

L- TAURINE:

Taurine is the second most abundant amino acid in the muscle after glutamine. It performs several useful functions and can act in a way similar to creatine in that it expands cells by helping the muscle to hold more water, thus increasing cell volume. The added benefit for bodybuilders is that these expanded muscle cells boost hydration and stimulate greater protein synthesis giving enhanced muscle fullness.

 

The best time for bodybuilders to take taurine is thirty minutes before training and again immediately afterwards as this will heighten the effect of training. With any amino acid supplement overdosing can lead to weakness and nausea so care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.

 

L- TYROSINE:

L-tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid that plays a role in the creation of protein. The body can make it from the amino acid phenylalanine but nutritional sources include animal meats, wheat, oatmeal and seafood.

 

It performs a multitude of important roles in the body including the alleviation of depression, enhancement of thyroid efficiency, strengthening of the immune system, prevention of neurological degeneration and protection of the skin.

Bodybuilders find it useful for several reasons:

 

1. It offsets the stress and fatigue associated with intensive training.

2. It helps in the retention of muscular protein.

3. It heightens mental alertness thus helping to offset mental fatigue.

 

With any amino acid supplement overdosing can lead to weakness and nausea so care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.

 

L- CARNITINE:

L-carnitine is synthesized in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine but it can also be found in nutritional sources such as red meats, dairy products and avocados. Its main role in the body is to help metabolize food into energy. L-carnitine does this by transferring long chain fatty acids into mitochondria where they are oxidized to produce energy.

 

L-carnitine is heart friendly and has been used for many years in the treatment of heart disease. Studies have shown that it can increase the heart's output and function, stimulate energy supply to the heart and improve overall cardiac performance.

 

Many bodybuilders use it for the following reasons:

 

1. It promotes muscle growth.

2. It increases energy.

3. It helps to burn fat.

4. It helps to prevent muscle fatigue.

 

L-carnitine is a relatively safe supplement provided the manufacturer's recommendations are followed. As with all supplements, remain aware that l-carnitine could be contained in other products so read the labels carefully to ensure your daily intake does not exceed four grams.

 

L- LYSINE:

Lysine is an essential amino acid therefore it must be obtained from the diet as the body cannot produce its own. It is an essential building block for all protein in the body and can be found in animal meats, fish, dairy products, legumes and brewer's yeast. It performs many useful functions in the body and has proved to be especially useful in treating herpes and cold sores. Lysine also increases the absorption of calcium so it may help to prevent and treat osteoporosis.

 

To the bodybuilder, lysine offers many benefits:

 

1. It helps build muscle protein.

2. It helps maintain nitrogen levels.

3. It supports the production of hormones.

4. It speeds up recovery from injury or overtraining.

 

Although lysine can be readily obtained from many foodstuffs, supplementation can enhance the effects noted above. No problems have been reported with normal usage but high doses exceeding 15 grams can cause stomach problems and cramp.

 

ZMA:

ZMA is a scientifically designed anabolic mineral formula containing zinc monomethionine aspartate, magnesium aspartate and vitamin B-6. Studies have shown that it has a clinical effect on testosterone levels when taken in a combination containing 30 mg of zinc and 450 mg of magnesium per day. The most famous study conducted by Lorrie Brilla at Western Washington University indicated that this combination could raise testosterone levels by as much as 30%.

 

Bodybuilders can obviously benefit from taking ZMA, specifically in the following ways:

 

1. It increases the body's natural production of testosterone thus boosting its capacity for building lean muscle.

2. It increases levels of growth hormone.

3. It helps sleep if taken 30-60 minutes before bed thus enhancing rest and recovery.

 

ZMA has no known side effects but it must be taken in the proper dosage to the exact proportions used in most studies - that is 11 mg of vitamin B-6, 450 mg of magnesium and 30 mg of zinc.

 

TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS:

Tribulus terrestris is an herb that comes from a plant found in Asia. It has been used in the past by many cultures for the treatment of liver, kidney and cardiovascular diseases. It has also been used as a diuretic and to treat infertility. In recent years strength athletes in Eastern Europe are reputed to have used it to enhance performance.

 

It is believed to enhance testosterone levels by encouraging the production of lutenizing hormone. Studies have shown that when lutenizing hormone levels are increased, the natural production of testosterone also increases.

 

It is difficult to assess the validity of tribulus as a muscle growth enhancer because none of the studies carried out have appeared in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Its proponents do suggest that it can prove useful when stacked with 100 mg of DHEA and 100 mg of androstenedione but this takes us into the equally uncertain territory of prohormones which we have covered in a separate article.

 

If you do wish to experiment with tribulus you can take 750-1250 mg per day divided between meals. Some people experience stomach upsets but this can be minimized by taking it with food. There's no guarantee that tribulus terrestris will help you grow bigger muscles but many users report a much improved sex drive!


HMB:

HMB stands for beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate. It is a metabolite of leucine, one of the body's essential amino acids, with small amounts found naturally in catfish, grapefruit and alfalfa.

It has become very popular amongst athletes in recent years mainly due to the role it plays in the synthesis of muscle tissue. HMB has been subjected to many studies that have reached some interesting conclusions. One study showed that supplementation with 3 grams of HMB per day increased participants' strength by a factor of three compared with placebo takers. Supplementing with the same amount also saw a reduction in bad cholesterol compared with the placebo group.

Clearly there is significant scientific backing for claims that HMB can speed up muscle growth, strength, endurance and fat loss. There are no known side effects when taken properly in amounts ranging from 3-5 grams each day. It should be taken before training or at bed time for best results.

 

NITRIC OXIDE:

Nitric oxide is a free form gas produced by the body in order to communicate with other cells. It is created when enzymes break down the amino acid arginine. The main benefit of nitric oxide is its role in controlling the circulation of blood and regulating activities of the brain, lungs, liver, stomach and other organs. It also helps in the control of blood pressure, dilates blood vessels to cause penile erection and is used by the immune system to fight viral, bacterial and parasitic infections.

 

It is the ability of nitric oxide to increase blood flow that is of most interest to bodybuilders who can benefit as follows:

 

1. The increased blood flow delivers more nutrients to the muscle cells thus helping them to grow during the adaptation and recovery phase.

2. Its ability to reduce inflammation helps muscles that have been subjected to extreme stresses.

 

Given its close relationship with arginine care should be taken in applying small doses and increasing them gradually until an optimum level is reached. Bear in mind that many protein powders and other supplements are fortified with amino acids so check the labels carefully. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed in all instances.

 

METHOXYISOFLAVONE:

Flavones are the latest big supplement to hit the market. Methoxyisoflavone is a non-hormonal anabolic compound that has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, increase protein synthesis and improve recovery from exercise.

 

During tests that led to the issuing of a patent for methoxyisoflavone the following findings were noted:

 

1. It was found to be more anabolic than anabolic steroids without any of the side effects.

2. It increased lean body mass significantly within 30 days while producing no androgenic effect.

3. Cortisol levels were reduced and nitrogen levels increased considerably.

 

Flavones can be safely taken by men and women who want to boost their lean muscle gains without risking the hazards associated with taking anabolic steroids. A dose of 400-800 mg can be taken daily, split over two doses. Its effects can be enhanced by taking it with protein due to the ability of protein to force nutrients into muscle cells.

 

Methoxy can also be stacked safely with ZMA to maximise testosterone gains, or ecdysterone to increase protein synthesis, maintain a positive nitrogen balance and keep the body in an anabolic state.

ECDYSTERONE:

Ecdysterone is a powerful compound that can help to maximise your genetic potential to build muscle. It exists in the herbs Rhaponticium and Cyanatis Vaga. Although it has been known about for many years the expense associated with its extraction meant it was not viable for commercial production. Recent advancements in extraction technology, through in-vitrio cultivation, have made wholesale production possible.

 

Ecdysterone has been subjected to over 50 studies with the following major findings:

 

1. It increases lean muscle mass.

2. It increases endurance.

3. It stimulates metabolism.

4. It decreases blood sugar levels.

5. It reduces fatty tissue.

6. It prevents loss of muscle mass and promotes growth of muscle fibers.

7. It is suitable for both men and women and has no known side effects.

 

Ecdysterone seems to create a kind muscle building environment in the body by maintaining a positive nitrogen balance and by increasing protein synthesis. The recommended dose for Ecdysterone is 80-120 mg per day although dosages of up to 600 mg per day can be safely taken.

 

NEED HELP FINDING THESE SUPPLEMENTS? OR NEED HELP FINDING GOOD NUTRITONAL ADVICE? SIMPLY COME IN TO ONE OF OUR STORES, RING OR EMAIL US AND WE WOULD BE GLAD TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE THE RESULTS YOU ARE LOOKING FOR FASTER.

  • The Indispensable Amino acids

    Isoleucine
    • A branched chain amino acid readily taken up and used for energy by muscle tissue.
    • Used to prevent muscle wasting in debilitated individuals
    • Essential in the formation of hemoglobin

       


    Leucine
    • A branched chain amino acid used as a source of energy
    • Helps reduce muscle protein breakdown
    • Modulates uptake of neurotransmitter precursors by the brain as well as the release of enkephalins, which inhibit the passage of pain signals into the nervous system.
    • Promotes healing of skin and broken bones.

    Valine
    • A branched chain amino acid
    • Not processed by the liver; rather actively taken up by muscle
    • Influences brain uptake of other neurotransmitter precursors (trptophan, phenylalanine and tryosine).

    Histadine
    • One of the major ultraviolet absorbing compounds in the skin
    • Important in the production of red and white blood cells; used in the treatment of anemia
    • Used in the treatment of allergic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis and digestive ulcers.

    Lysine
    • Low levels can slow protein synthesis, affecting muscle and connective tissue
    • Inhibits viruses; used in the treatment of herpes simplex
    • Lysine and Vitamin C together form L-carnitine, a biochemical that enables muscle tissue to use oxygen more efficiently, delaying fatigue
    • Aids bone growth by helping form collagen, the fibrous protein that makes up bone, cartilage and other connective tissue.

    Methionine
    • Precursor of cystine and creatine
    • May increase antioxidant levels (glutathione) and reduce blood cholesterol levels.
    • Helps remove toxic wastes from the liver and assists in the regeneration of liver and kidney tissue

    Phenylalanine
    • The major precursor of tyrosine
    • Enhances learning, memory, mood and alertness
    • Used in the treatment of some types of depression
    • Is a major element in the production of collagen
    • Suppresses appetite

    Threonine
    • One of the amino detoxifers
    • Helps prevent fatty buildup in the liver
    • Important component of collagen
    • Generally low in vegetarians

    Tryptophan
    • Precursor of key neurotransmitter serotonin, which exerts a calming effect
    • Stimulates the release of growth hormones
    • Free form of this amino acid is unavailable in the U.S.
    • It is only available in natural food sources
    Conditionally Dispensable Amino Acids

    Arginine
    • Can increase secretion of insulin, glucagon, growth hormones
    • Aids in injury rehabilitation, formation of collagen and immune system stimulation.
    • Precursor of creatine, gamma amino butric acid (GABA, a neurotransmitter in the brain)
    • May increase sperm count and T-lymphocyte response

    Cysteine
    • Detoxifies harmful chemicals in combination with L-aspartic acid and L-citruline
    • Helps prevent damage from alcohol and tobacco use
    • Stimulates white blood cell activity

    Tyrosine
    • Precursor of the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine, as well as thyroid and growth hormones and melanin (the pigment responsible for skin and hair color).
    • Elevates mood
    Dispensable Amino Acids

    Alanine
    • Major component of connective tissue
    • Key intermediate in the glucose alanine cycle, which allows muscles and other tissues to derive energy from amino acids
    • Helps build up the immune system

    Aspartic Acid
    • Helps convert carbohydrates into muscle energy
    • Builds immune system immunoglobulins and antibodies
    • Reduces ammonia levels after exercises

    Cystine
    • Contributes to strong connective4e tissue and tissue antioxidant actions
    • Aids in healing processes, stimulates white blood cell activity and helps diminish pain from inflammation
    • Essential for the formation of skin and hair

    Glutamic Acid
    • A major precursor of glutamine, proline, ornothine, arginine, glutathione, and GABA
    • A potential source of energy
    • Important in brain metabolism and metabolism of other amino acids.

    Glutamine
    • Most abundant amino acid
    • Plays a key role in immune system functions
    • An important source of energy, especially for kidneys and intestines during caloric restrictions.
    • A brain fuel that is an aid to memory and a stimulant to intelligence and concentration

    Glycine
    • Aids in the manufacture of other amino acids and is a part of the structure of hemoglobin and cytochromes (enzymes involved in energy production)
    • Has a calming effect and is sometimes used to treat manic depressive and aggressive individuals
    • Produces glucagon, which mobilizes glycogen
    • Can inhibit sugar cravings

    Ornithine
    • May help increase growth hormone secretion in high doses
    • Aids in immune and liver function
    • Promotes healing

    Proline
    • A major component in the formation of connective tissue and heart muscle
    • Readily mobilized for muscular energy
    • Major constituent of collagen

    Serine
    • Important in cells' energy production
    • Aids memory and nervous system function
    • Helps builds up immune system by producing immuno-globulins and antibodies

    Taurine
    • Aids in the absorption and elimination of fats
    • May act as a neurotransmitter in some areas of the brain and retina

     

    Amino Acid Form Comparison & Usage Guide

     

    FormFunction/ValueProsConsRecommended Usage
    Free-Form Does not require digestion; small amounts quickly absorbed into bloodstream. Nutrients absorbed into bloodstream quickly, available to muscle or other tissues; helps prevent muscle catabolism. Relatively expensive. For example, glutamine: 3-5 grams, 1-5 times per day before or between meals; same for mixture of IAAs.
    Hydrolyzed Predigestion speeds entry into digestive system, but often contains longer chains that must be broken down. Whey and lactalbumin are examples. Predigestion speeds absorption Contains longer chains, which must be broken before being absorbed into bloodstream. For maximum mass . strength gains or during periods of high stress or gastrointestinal problems: 20-30 grams, 1-3 times per day; for optimal health maintenance: 20 grams once per day.
    Branched Chain Aids in the formation of alanine from glucose during exercise as well as glutamine from glucose and alphaketo glutarate. Can be converted into energy to prevent muscle catabolism. Relatively expensive form of energy for muscle action. During hard training: 4-5 grams 2-5 times per day, especially before and after training. Optimal ratio for normal use is 2:1:1 (leucine : isoleucine : valine), although higher leucine content immediately before and after exercise is okay.
    Di-Tripeptides Two or three molecule amino acids that are quickly digested. Depending on conditions, may significantly increase nitrogen retention. Short chains for moderately fast digestion and absorption. Cost, availability, taste, osmolality. Usually found in highest quality hydrolyzed protein supplements (see doses above).