BCAA (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) ratios like 2:1:1, 4:1:1, and 8:1:1 refer to the proportion of leucine, isoleucine, and valine in the supplement. Leucine is often emphasized for its role in muscle protein synthesis. A 2:1:1 ratio is a common and balanced choice, while higher leucine ratios like 4:1:1 or 8:1:1 may be preferred for specific goals like muscle growth and recovery.
Beta-alanine is a non-essential amino acid that combines with histidine to form carnosine in muscles. Carnosine helps buffer acid buildup during intense exercise, delaying muscle fatigue. Supplementing with beta-alanine can enhance endurance and performance, particularly in activities with high-intensity, short-duration efforts. It may cause temporary tingling sensations known as paresthesia.
Betaine anhydrous, also known as trimethylglycine, is a naturally occurring compound found in beets. In sports nutrition, it is used for its potential benefits in improving exercise performance, muscle endurance, and strength. Betaine may support methionine and homocysteine metabolism, contributing to better overall health. Some studies suggest it can enhance power output and reduce fatigue during high-intensity exercise.
Creatine monohydrate is a popular and well-researched dietary supplement used to enhance athletic performance. It works by increasing the body's stores of creatine phosphate, which is used to regenerate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency of cells. Creatine supplementation is known to improve strength, power, and muscle mass.
D-Aspartic acid is an amino acid that plays a role in the synthesis of testosterone in the body. Some research suggests that supplementing with D-aspartic acid may temporarily increase testosterone levels, making it a popular ingredient in some testosterone-boosting supplements. However, the evidence on its effectiveness is mixed, and more research is needed to fully understand its long-term impact and potential side effects.
Essential Amino Acids (EAAs) are a group of amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own and must be obtained through diet. There are nine essential amino acids: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine. EAAs are crucial for protein synthesis, muscle repair, and overall growth. They are particularly important for athletes and individuals engaging in intense physical activity to support recovery and optimize muscle protein balance.
HMB (β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate) is a metabolite of the essential amino acid leucine. It is available in the form of calcium salt, known as HMB calcium. HMB is believed to have anti-catabolic effects, helping to prevent muscle protein breakdown and promoting muscle protein synthesis.
L-arginine is an amino acid that plays a role in various physiological processes, including the production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and circulation. Some athletes and individuals use L-arginine supplements with the belief that it may enhance exercise performance by increasing blood flow to muscles. Additionally, L-arginine is a precursor to creatine synthesis and plays a role in protein synthesis.
L-Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AAKG) is a compound that combines the amino acid L-arginine with alpha-ketoglutarate, a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle. AAKG is often used as a supplement with the belief that it can increase nitric oxide production, leading to improved blood flow and better nutrient delivery to muscles. Some athletes use AAKG to potentially enhance exercise performance and promote muscle pumps during resistance training.
L-Carnitine base is a naturally occurring compound and a dietary supplement often used for its potential role in fat metabolism. It plays a crucial role in the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are oxidized to produce energy. L-Carnitine is available in different forms, and L-Carnitine Base refers to the basic form of this compound.
L-Citrulline is an amino acid that plays a role in the urea cycle, which helps remove ammonia from the body. It is also a precursor to L-arginine, another amino acid involved in the production of nitric oxide. L-Citrulline supplementation is commonly used in the fitness and sports nutrition context.
L-Citrulline DL-Malate 2:1 is a compound that combines L-Citrulline with malic acid in a 2:1 ratio. L-Citrulline is an amino acid that plays a role in the urea cycle and is a precursor to L-arginine, which is involved in nitric oxide production. Malic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in fruits and is involved in the production of energy within cells.
L-Glutamine is one of the 20 amino acids that make up proteins in the body. It is considered a conditionally essential amino acid, meaning that while the body can typically produce it, during certain circumstances, such as intense exercise or stress, the demand for glutamine may exceed the body's ability to produce it.
Taurine is a naturally occurring amino acid-like compound found in various tissues of the body, particularly in the brain, heart, and muscles. It is not used in protein synthesis like other amino acids but serves various physiological functions. Taurine is often included in energy drinks and supplements, where it is believed to have potential benefits such as supporting cardiovascular function, improving exercise performance, and promoting electrolyte balance.