12 Best Amino Acids for Muscle Growth

Author: Timko Ilya - the ruler of the entire site and fitness trainer | more details >> Rod. 1984 Trained since 1999 Trained since 2007. Author and creator of the site tvoytrener.com. CCM in powerlifting. Champion of Russia and South Russia according to AWPC. Champion of the Krasnodar region according to IPF. 1st category in weightlifting. 2-time winner of the Krasnodar Territory championship in t/a. Author of more than 700 articles on fitness and amateur athletics. Author and co-author of 5 books.

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People, as a rule, when purchasing amino acids, pay attention to the number of tablets (capsules) in the jar. Or by the weight of the powder (if the amino acids are in the powder). But did you know that the % of amino acids in these banks is not always close to 100%? It would be nice if it was 90% or 80%. But sometimes capsules contain only 40% - 50% amino acids.

So, when compiling this selection, I relied on how many amino acids are in the package. And how much each 100 grams of pure amino acids will cost you. Of course, these are approximate data, since prices in different stores can vary greatly. But, nevertheless, these figures still clearly show the differences in price between different products.

In addition, dubious companies, which I personally do not trust, do not participate in the TOP.

general description

Before looking at reviews of amino acids for muscle growth, you need to understand what they are. Why did they become essential in the training of athletes? Amino acids are the main components of a protein compound that are released during its breakdown when it enters the body. The chemical properties of these elements allow them to perform various useful functions, which include:

Taking part in building muscles.
Protecting muscle tissue from breakdown during recovery after sports.
Normal functioning of the endocrine glands of the human body.
Improvement of cartilage tissue and blood vessels.

Classification of amino acids

To select an amino acid, it is advisable to have a basic understanding of the forms in which this product is produced. This information will enable you to read product descriptions and understand a number of important concepts.

Table 1. Classification of amino acids by structure

Category	Description
Available	Amino acid molecules do not interact with other components of the composition, which allows the body to absorb them faster. When released into the gastrointestinal tract, free AMK are immediately absorbed into the blood. This type is used by professional athletes due to its rapid breakdown and stable effect. The main disadvantage of such drugs is their high cost.
Hydrolyzed	The form consists of a large number of amino acids that form a chain. In the process of assimilation of the drug, the body spends time destroying chemical bonds between neutral particles. This procedure takes additional time
BCAAs	BCAA's include branched chain amino acids. ¼ of muscle mass consists of such molecules. They act as a reserve source of energy during active training. Taking BCAA supplements minimizes the risk of muscle breakdown. The body turns to this substance when all available carbohydrate forms are exhausted.
Di- and tripeptide	In terms of absorption rate, dipeptide molecules are not inferior to free ones. Peptides fall into two categories. The first “batch” is broken down into amino acids. The second is used to build protein molecules

What are amino acids?
The above classification is not exhaustive. Amino acids are also usually divided into groups according to the role they play in the athlete’s body:

replaceable: synthesized by the body in sufficient quantities without additional help (these include alanine, taurine, glycine, etc.);
conditionally replaceable: synthesized by the body in insufficient quantities or, for physiological reasons, not synthesized at all (arginine, tyrosine, cystine, etc. are considered these);
irreplaceable: not synthesized by the body and enter it with food or specialized drugs (among them valine, leucine, lysine).

Essential amino acids for humans

Reference. Essential amino acids are of greatest importance for the formation of muscle fibers. They provide the body with the necessary resources for the development of fibers.

Effect on the body

Amino acids, which enter the human body along with animal and plant proteins, in most cases have a complex structure, making their absorption more difficult and lengthy. These substances, which are included in various sports nutrition supplements, do not have this drawback. Therefore, their assimilation occurs as quickly as possible, due to the most complete correspondence of these elements to those with which the human body operates.

Amino acids, which are sold in sports nutrition stores, quickly replenish the deficiency of essential elements in the body, and also ensure high-quality and rapid growth of muscle tissue and protect them from the catabolic process. Their effectiveness during physical activity has been confirmed by various scientific studies.

All amino acid complexes are not capable of causing harm to the human body, because they do not contain other elements and substances other than those that the athlete needs.

Best Supplements in Powder Form

Amino acids in powder form are prescribed to increase the concentration of a certain group of substances in the body. You need to be especially careful when taking it, as it is easy to overdose.

Essential Amino Energy from Optimum Nutrition

The energy complex is rich in amino acids, which are absorbed as quickly as possible. Contains stimulants that activate nitrogen production and tonic additives.

The complex helps increase endurance and helps to recover faster after exercise. Can be taken both when gaining weight and during drying. One serving contains no more than 10 Kcal.

You need to take the drug three times a day, diluting a portion measured with a measuring spoon in water or juice.

Pros:

trusted manufacturer;
several flavor options to choose from;
easy to cook.

The disadvantage is the high price of the drug, but almost all Optimum Nutrition products are not cheap.

Premium BCAA Powder from Weider

Energy drug produced in Germany. Contains BCAA complex and glutamine. The drug formula is most effective for recovery after exercise and increasing muscle volume.

Taking the drug provides increased strength, suppresses catabolism, increases endurance and performance in training. This drug (as prescribed by a sports doctor) can be taken in combination with other supplements.

One serving contains 37 kcal. You need to take from 1 to 3 servings per day, depending on the individual needs of the body.

Pros:

effective action;
ease of use;
different flavors (cherry, coconut, etc.).

Consumers cited the following disadvantages:

the smell is not very pleasant, some consumers thought that the product smelled like medicine;
It takes a long time to dissolve, you have to stir the powder in water for 10 minutes.

Amino Power by Prime Kraft

A pre-workout complex that does not contain potent substances. A completely safe product that provides good results. The composition of the drug is simple, it includes a complex of amino acids BCAA, arginine, creatine, beta-alanine. Suitable for people involved in different sports.

You need to take 1-2 servings before starting your workout. A measured amount of powder must be mixed in the liquid. Available in different flavors - citrus, pineapple, etc.

Advantages of the product:

pleasant taste, easy to drink;
quick effect;
affordable price.

Consumers did not identify any significant deficiencies.

Rating of the best amino acids

For athletes, these drugs are available in the form of capsules, tablets, powder or liquid form. The most important amino acids for muscle growth can be purchased at almost any pharmacy. In addition, these drugs are sold in sports nutrition stores. Amino acids for muscle growth:

Glycine tablets.
L-glutamine capsules.
Arginine.
Methionine.
Cerebrolysin.
Licin.
Alvezin.

In most cases, the drugs are positively characterized by experienced athletes. Speaking about which amino acids are better, reviews from users indicate that pharmaceutical products are lower in cost compared to the supplements available in sports nutrition stores. And this is a definite advantage for professional athletes who use them regularly.

The best supplements in solution form

Additives in the form of solutions are prescribed if you need to achieve results almost instantly. Liquid forms are absorbed much faster than solid forms.

Amino Power Liquid by Weider

Liquid concentrated product for muscle nutrition. It is recommended to use the drug immediately after training, this will help you recover as quickly as possible and gain muscle mass. Muscle growth is ensured by the addition of vitamin B6 and L-leucine to the drug. The drug does not contain aspartame. One serving contains 40 Kcal.

It is recommended to take 3 servings per day, 1 serving before training and two after. A 1 liter container contains 66 servings.

Advantages of the drug noted by athletes:

really helps;
Convenient measuring cup included;
several different tastes.

Consumers cited the inflated price in regular stores as a disadvantage; in addition, some athletes thought that supplements with some flavors were bitter.

Amino Liquid 50 from Scitec Nutrition

Extra-class nutritional supplement intended for athletes. Easily and quickly absorbed, ensures complete recovery, helps preserve muscle tissue even while following a strict diet and stimulates muscle growth.

The supplement contains collagen hydrolyzate; this protein is involved in the metabolic processes of muscle and connective tissue. The product increases endurance, ensures nitrogen retention and is a source of additional energy.

Strengthens joints and ligaments, has a beneficial effect on the immune system, liver and brain function. An additional bonus is that the condition of hair, nails and skin improves.

Advantages of the drug:

safe and effective;
quickly absorbed;
convenient to receive.

The only negative is the high price; no other consumer complaints have been recorded.

Ultra-Pure Amino Liquid from MUSCLETECH

A drug containing a complex of essential and essential amino acids, including the BCAA complex. The unique formula of the drug ensures a rapid supply of nutrients to the muscles. Has a pleasant fruit punch taste.

Serving size – 4 teaspoons, serving contains 110 Kcal. It is recommended to take once a day after training or between meals.

Pros:

helps to quickly recover after training;
increases strength indicators;
affordable price.

The drug contains sugar, this must be taken into account when planning your diet.

Amino acid names

According to the athletes, a list of the best amino acid producers was compiled. They can be purchased at a sports nutrition store; as a rule, they are not sold in pharmacies. Names of amino acids for muscle growth:

Amino Liquid 50 Scitec Nutrition;
SciVation Xtend;
Amino FUEL LIQUID Twin Lab;
Amino Gold Ultimate Nutrition;
Optimum Nutrition Amino Energy;
Weider PURE Amino EGG;
AminoMax 8000 Gaspari Nutrition;
Amino Power System;
Anabolic Amino Olimp;
Dymatize Super Amino 6000.

How to choose a good amino acid complex

Amino acids are presented quite widely on iHerb. How to choose the best amino acid complex and what to look for when purchasing?

First of all, you need to focus on the reputation of the manufacturer. No, it is not at all necessary to study the history of each brand. For those new to the site, I have a little hint: serious manufacturers with a thorough approach to the selection of raw materials and quality control package their dietary supplements in glass. Budget products of lower quality are produced in plastic cans.

It is also important to study the composition, paying close attention to the list of auxiliary ingredients.

If you focus solely on the stated amount of amino acids, there is a high chance of buying a low-quality pacifier.

The best choice in all respects will be Country Life Max-Amino Caps

The complex contains 16 amino acids and vitamin B6. There are no GMOs, various questionable additives, soy, dyes and preservatives.

The full daily requirement is 4 capsules, but this is for athletes and people who, for some reason, do not receive amino acids from food at all. For people experiencing a slight protein deficiency, or for the prevention of such conditions, 2 capsules per day is sufficient.

Also without drawbacks, but Bluebonnet Nutrition Amino Acid Capsules complex is more expensive.

The high price is due to the wide amino acid profile (19 amino acids). In addition, if we compare the richness of the compositions of Country Life and Bluebonnet, the second complex wins. Almost every amino acid per serving is present in greater quantities than Country Life. I would advise people with serious amino acid deficiencies or athletes to choose Bluebonnet Nutrition amino acids. Country Life is perfect for preventing amino acid deficiency.

Types of amino acids

In total, 22 types of amino acids are used in the human body. It is able to synthesize only 14 of them on its own, while others are essential and only come from food. These amino acids include:

Leucine, which helps improve the immune system, remove waste and toxins from the human body, and protect muscle tissue from the catabolic process.
Isoleucine. Increases strength endurance, restores the human body after heavy physical activity.
Valin. Helps reduce the body's susceptibility to various external irritants, as well as increase the rate of muscle tissue building.
Phenylalanine. Improves brain activity, eliminates the negative effects of stress. It is necessary to pay attention to the fact that these amino acids are contraindicated for women during pregnancy.
Lysine. Increases metabolic rate, strengthens bone tissue, improves the absorption of calcium entering the body.
Threonine. Heals the digestive system, removes harmful substances and minerals from the human body.
Methionine. Promotes the breakdown of fat cells, as well as the synthesis of adrenaline and creatine, which the body needs for the growth of muscle tissue.

The role of amino acids in vital processes of the body:

Without them, proteins will not be produced.
The brain cannot evaluate external and internal stimuli without the presence of such components.
When the body has the right amount of them, vitamins and minerals fulfill their intended purpose.
Each amino acid has its own effect on muscles.

Amino 5600 from Scitec Nutrition

BCAA amino acids

BCAA amino acids are a whole complex of elements, which includes three essential types: isoleucine, leucine and valine. These products are aimed at maximizing the growth of muscle tissue, as well as protecting them from the catabolic process during recovery or during drying.

Now let's take a closer look at the best amino acids for muscle growth.

What are amino acids?

Any person leading an active lifestyle gets tired after a certain amount of physical exercise. Amino acids, stimulating the process of muscle growth, provide additional energy and thereby help to recover faster.

Amino acid is a structural chemical unit that forms protein compounds and is involved in the metabolism of nitrogenous substances.

Types of amino acids	Name	Properties
Replaceable	Adenine, alanine, aspartic acid, glycine, glutamine, guanine, ornithine, proline, serine, taurine, tyrosine, cystine	Synthesized in the body from other compounds
Conditionally replaceable	Arginine, histidine	Not produced in children and the elderly
Irreplaceable	Valine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan, phenylalanine	Comes only from outside with food products

A balanced diet allows you to get all the necessary substances from food. However, athletes require larger amounts of this component, and they take it in the form of drugs.

Each amino acid has specific functions. The need for this compound increases according to body weight.

Correct intake of amino acids

First of all, you need to pay attention to the fact that it does not matter what amino acids you take for muscle growth - in the form of tablets, capsules or liquid. In addition, these drugs can be taken in combination with other components of sports nutrition. Experts have not found any incompatibility of amino acids with other sports supplements.

But how to take amino acids for muscle growth? Reviews from athletes suggest that it is best to do this on an empty stomach or some time after eating, since the combination of these supplements with regular foods has a negative effect on their absorption. Typically, amino acids are taken three times a day.

The first dose is taken immediately after waking up in the morning. This prevents the catabolic process in the muscles, which is associated with a lack of proteins in the human body during sleep.

The next dose should be taken before training. Thanks to this, the body is provided with all the required elements for productive work.

The last intake of amino acids should be taken after training. This way you can ensure high-quality recovery of your body after physical activity. At the same time, muscle tissue is protected from decay under the influence of cortisol.

What else do you need to know about taking amino acids for muscle growth? Reviews from experts indicate that the dosage of this drug will depend on the athlete’s body weight and the composition of the supplement. It must be remembered that the human body is not able to absorb more than 6 g of amino acids per hour, so you should not increase the dosage. You can take these elements constantly, because they will not cause any harm to the body if you adhere to the recommended norm.

Powder formulations

Intra Fuel (San)

A fairly well-known product developed on the basis of amino acid complexes, and it can be used both before and during training; some users recommend using the drug after the end of the workout. The fact is that its composition is selected so carefully that it helps prevent destructive processes in muscle tissue. In addition, the composition is responsible for supplying the muscles with water and significantly increases endurance. The basis of the drug here is an extensive complex of free form amino acids, with their help the metabolic process is significantly accelerated. The complex quite effectively combats the occurrence of catabolic processes, slows down the onset of fatigue, and also increases endurance.

One of the important distinguishing features of this drug is the presence of beta-alanine in it. With its help, it is possible to control the oxidative reactions that occur in muscle tissue directly during training, which also has a positive effect on the efficiency of the process. Citrulline malate and L-tyrosine are also added here, which are responsible for accelerating the production of nitric oxide, growth hormone and insulin. These supplements allow you to maintain the gained muscle mass and give it a beautiful relief.

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Advantages:

It has a fairly effective effect on the body;
Quickly dissolves in water;
Can be taken even during training.

Flaws:

Quite a high cost;
The taste is not for everyone.

BCAA Xplode (Olimp)

Quite well-known Polish-made products belonging to the middle price category. Here, along with essential amino acids, there is vitamin B6 and a small amount of glutamine. The taste of this drug is at a very high level - the user can purchase the drug with various food additives, sweeteners, and so on. The complex of essential amino acids here is in a ratio of 2:1:1. It was decided to use it based on the results of research, which helped establish that beneficial substances are found in such a concentration in an ordinary chicken egg, which is absorbed by the human body almost in full.

In addition to a set of standard essential amino acids, this preparation contains substances that increase the degree of glucose absorption by the body. It contains water-soluble vitamin B7 - biotin, which acts as a catalyst in the synthesis of many hormones useful during and after training. As already noted, there is vitamin B6 here - due to it, the enzyme transaminase is synthesized, which ensures the transport of amino acids into muscle tissue, ensuring their deep penetration into the cellular structure. You can take the drug in the morning - immediately after waking up or after finishing your workout. The minimum dose is 5 grams. In this case, muscle mass will begin to actively grow.

Advantages:

Excellent ratio of quantity, cost and quality of products;
The product is additionally enriched with glutamine and a vitamin complex;
There is a large selection of flavor options.

Flaws:

More glutamine could be added to the composition.

BCAA Pro Reloaded (San)

The drug, according to the standard, contains the entire necessary complex of essential amino acids, and also has a decent concentration of glutamine. The product is universal, as it is well suited for active gain of muscle mass, and for subsequent drying and giving relief to muscle tissue. It goes well with any other nutritional supplements. The composition easily dissolves in water, slows down the onset of feelings of fatigue, and completely suppresses catabolism. With its help, it is possible to make regeneration processes as active as possible, which trigger the formation of new muscle tissue cells and increase endurance. This drug has special additives such as flavorings, citric acid and other substances that improve its taste.

Take three times a day - one portion in the morning, another during training, and the third half an hour after its completion. All substances dissolve in water very quickly, so the drink is consumed immediately after preparation. No special contraindications were identified for this drug, with the exception of individual intolerance to various components.

Advantages:

Excellent product quality - no foreign additives were found during composition analysis;
For better mixing with liquid and quick dissolution, the powder particles are very small in size;
There is a large selection of flavors - strawberries and cream, watermelon, banana and so on;
Works quickly and effectively regardless of the type of training.

Flaws:

Quite a high cost.

Modern BCAA (USPlabs)

This is a very well-known product of a company that has been producing similar supplements for many years. Despite the fact that this drug has been on the market for quite some time, its popularity still continues to remain high. Initially, the composition was developed specifically for professional athletes, but later it was decided to release it for a wide range of consumers. The ratio of essential amino acids here is chosen as for strength sports. The production uses micronization technology, so the powder dissolves perfectly in water, and during its use there is not the slightest discomfort, so it can be taken with ordinary water, and this can be done directly during training.

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The composition contains an increased concentration of leucine, since it is responsible for actively building muscle mass and slowing down fatigue. The portions that the user will have to take at a time are quite large, but the body will also receive a decent amount of substances useful for training. In particular, one can, which weighs 1340 grams, contains only 75 servings of the supplement. It also contains vitamin B6 and Beta Alanine. Users did not have any complaints when using this composition: there are several flavor options, the powder is mixed simply perfectly, and the efficiency is at a very high level. Apply the product before the start of training and after its completion. In the days between workouts, especially if the user prefers an active lifestyle, one serving should be taken on an empty stomach. This will allow the muscles to recover much faster and receive all the necessary nutrients.

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Advantages:

Quickly and completely dissolves in water, which ensures instant absorption by the body;
Carefully selected composition designed to build muscle mass;
Large selection of flavors.

Flaws:

Even in a large package there are not very many servings;
Decent price for the product.

Xtend (SciVation)

One of the brightest representatives of its class - when taking such a supplement, the effect is much better, noticeable much faster than when using other similar drugs. The ratio of essential amino acids here is standard, but the developers decided to add substances such as glutamine, citrulline malate and vitamin B6. This composition is mostly preferred by professional athletes. Despite the fact that the manufacturing company does not spend a large amount of money on advertising, almost everyone is familiar with this BCAA. There are no cheap components here, they are all of excellent quality, and therefore provide an immediate effect immediately after ingestion. With the help of this supplement, it will be possible to significantly increase the body's endurance and reduce the production of the hormone cortisol, which ensures the activation of catabolism. After physical exertion, recovery processes start quickly and are very active.

With regular use of the drug, the nitrogen content in the blood increases, due to which beneficial substances quickly reach muscle tissue cells, which ensures their rapid and active development. Citrulline malate inhibits the production of lactic acid, making it possible to train longer and withstand greater loads. Another important quality of this substance is the relief of pain, which often occurs after completing a workout.

Advantages:

Muscle tissue cells regenerate and grow quite quickly;
Protein synthesis increases significantly;
Recovery processes are facilitated and accelerated.

Flaws:

You will have to pay a decent amount of money for this drug.

Amino X (BSN)

The supplement was developed by a world-famous sports nutrition manufacturer; it is an original and in many ways unique complex, designed for people who regularly work out in the gym. This includes a set of amino acids and vitamins that fight fat tissue well and ensure rapid and active growth of muscle mass. The workouts themselves become longer and more intense due to the increase in the body's endurance. The powdered composition dissolves in water within a few seconds, and this also has a positive effect on the absorption of amino acids by the body. The complex is sold in two weight packages - 435 or 1010 grams. The supplement has several flavor options - fruit punch, apple, blackberry and watermelon.

The composition contains all the necessary amino acids to prevent the occurrence of catabolic processes. The drug does not contain caffeine, so the invigorating effect can be achieved mainly due to the addition of vitamins and other useful microelements. Taking the complex helps the body recover very quickly even after a very intense workout. It contains no sugars, so you can take the product without any time restrictions. BCAAs can be taken even before bed, since it is during sleep that muscles recover much faster.

Advantages:

Amino acids are here in free form, so they will be quickly absorbed by the body;
Excellently soluble in water;
Produced by a trusted manufacturer.

Flaws:

A small amount of food coloring is added to the composition.

Which is better: protein or amino acids?

Many novice athletes wonder what is better for muscle growth: amino acids or protein. These elements provide an opportunity for a person to develop muscle tissue and supplement his body with energy for training. It is impossible to specifically answer the question of which drug should be preferred. Each of them has its own merits. Both protein supplements and amino acids help build muscle tissue almost equally. The individual supplement plays its role and is effective in different ways in each individual case.

What do the coaches say? Is protein or amino acids better for muscle growth? What medications should you still take? In this case, trainers recommend that athletes use both elements in combination, but for this it is necessary to rationally plan the intake. Thanks to this, it will be possible to significantly improve the athlete’s well-being and his expected result.

Applications of amino acids

Amino acids are important for the production, maintenance and repair of muscle tissue. Consumption of only one element brings little benefit; complex dosed use and combination with vitamins is necessary.

Proper use can relieve headaches, dizziness, fatigue, depression and irritability resulting from protein deficiency.

Amino acids for muscle growth

In order for muscle fibers to recover quickly and with good growth, the body requires a sufficient amount of amino acids.

The most popular group among athletes are leucine, valine, and isoleucine. These amino acids have an important effect on the development and restoration of muscles, as well as maintaining their tone.

Name	Action
Glutamine	Increased stamina Strengthening the immune system Muscle preservation
BCAA	Increased muscle mass Improving the quality of your training Inhibition of catabolic processes
Creatine monohydrate	Removing lactic acid from tissues Converting fat deposits into relief Takes part in building muscles.
Carnitine tartrate	Burning fat

The human body is capable of independently producing the necessary amino acids, but this is not enough for a person involved in sports. To maintain muscle mass and increase the rate of protein utilization, additional stimulation is required through higher doses.

When choosing, it is better to give preference to more digestible formulas, the compounds of which consist of 2-3 amino acids.

Amino acids for weight loss

The addition of amino acid complexes replaces carbohydrates when they are reduced in the diet during the drying period.

Substances suppress appetite and take part in biochemical reactions of fat breakdown:

arginine – reduction in fat by 60%;
carnitine – improves the effect of vitamins C and E;
phenylalanine – decreased appetite and increased metabolism;
lysine – normalization of digestive processes during diets.

The process of taking amino acids for weight loss does not differ from the usual use recommended by the instructions. The standard dosage varies within 2-3 times a day for 5-9 g.

This product is a natural component of the human body, so there are no restrictions on its intake. In addition, most amino acid complexes can be purchased at the pharmacy.

Amino acid complex in the pharmacy

Most amino acid complexes have medicinal properties and are produced by pharmaceutical companies.

The advantage of this is low cost and high quality, and the disadvantage is the insufficient quantity of necessary drugs produced by manufacturers.

At the pharmacy you can buy:

Glutamine. Reduces the amount of lactic acid. Improves concentration and memory. Found in DNA and RNA.
Methionine . Responsible for the breakdown of fats, increasing testosterone, energy production and muscle growth.
Arginine. The main functions are nitrogen retention, protein synthesis, growth hormone stimulation and cholesterol lowering.
Glycine. A metabolic regulator that normalizes and activates protective inhibition processes in the central nervous system, as well as reducing psycho-emotional stress.

Important! Application and daily doses are described in detail in the annotations for the drugs.

You can buy drugs at the pharmacy in different forms. You don’t need a prescription to purchase, but it’s better to consult with specialists who can recommend taking vitamins in addition to accelerating the effect.

Amino acids for athletes: which ones are better

Compounds obtained from food begin to enter the tissue after 2 hours and later, while after increased stress by the human body, the accumulation of glucose and active saturation of the blood with amino acids only lasts for only an hour. Therefore, it is better for a bodybuilder to use quickly absorbed supplements.

Side effects

Are there any side effects of amino acids for muscle growth? Reviews and research from experts indicate that in most cases these elements are beneficial for the human body. However, amino acids are safe for health if consumed in moderate doses. Only sometimes the drug can cause harm. As a rule, the following side effects should be included:

food poisoning;
problems with the cardiovascular system;
suppression of the function of the central nervous system.
liver and kidney diseases.

However, if you choose the right dose, take amino acids systematically and clearly, and also consult with a specialist before using the drug, then such problems should not arise. Please also note that if you stop taking supplements after intensive use, or completely forget about a balanced diet, muscle tissue will begin to quickly decrease in volume. These elements themselves do not have side effects if the athlete does not have problems with the kidneys, digestive tract, liver, heart or blood vessels.

Solgar amino acid complex

The cheapest in the top three is Solgar Essensial Amino Complex

The complex contains only 8 essential amino acids, but their dosage is higher than that of Country Life and Bluebonnet Nutrition - 75 mg of each amino acid in one capsule. In the previous two complexes, the average dosage is 100-150 mg per four capsules. The composition also does not contain artificial preservatives, flavors or other additives harmful to health, but GM raw materials were used. If you have nothing against GMOs in your diet, then purchasing the Solgar amino acid complex will be a good decision.

Reviews about taking amino acids

Reviews of taking amino acid complexes indicate that these drugs are very effective for the growth of muscle tissue. Many athletes prefer amino acids, relegating the use of protein shakes to the background. Some people prefer to use these drugs in combination. Thanks to the latter approach, you can improve the results of achieving your goals. Most novice athletes noted that muscle tissue begins to increase within a month after consuming amino acid complexes. However, in this case, it is necessary to simultaneously adhere to a balanced diet.

As for specific manufacturers, they do not matter. Most athletes still prefer those amino acids that are sold in pharmacies, since their cost is much lower than those that are on the shelves in sports stores.

As for side effects, they are practically absent if the athlete adheres to a certain dosage and frequency of use of amino acids. Experts recommend consulting with your doctor in advance, since the athlete may have liver, kidney, or heart diseases, which is a contraindication to the use of amino acid complexes.

Now that the characteristics of the best amino acids for muscle growth and reviews (you have also read the rating) of those taking supplements are already known, you can make your personal choice.

BCAA tablets and capsules

BCAA 6400 (Scitec Nutrition)

A very popular remedy used by both professional athletes and amateurs who want to put their body in order. The complex is supplied in a plastic jar containing 125 tablets - enough for a couple of months of regular use. The appearance is standard, it is very convenient to open, and besides, the dimensions of the can are small - it is convenient to carry with you all the time. The set of amino acids and other useful additives here is standard. One tablet is enough for about a 40-minute workout, and the muscles are maintained in good condition for a long time. The tablets themselves are small in size, making them very convenient to drink. They are taken both before and after training, washed down with plain water or juice. In addition, you can use them on days when classes are not planned.

There are no contraindications to the use of this drug; it is contraindicated only in nursing and pregnant women, and adolescents under the age of 18 years. In this case, some intolerance to the components of the drug may occur. Products must be stored in a dry place, protected from direct sunlight.

Advantages:

Quickly restores muscle tissue even after very intense workouts;
No side effects of this drug were found;
Lean muscle mass is actively growing;
Ensures burning of adipose tissue;
Strength indicators increase well.

Flaws:

The tablets themselves are a little bitter;
A relatively large jar, but only half filled.

BCAA+B6 (Biotech USA)

It has a full set of essential amino acids in the classic 2:1:1 ratio. Largely due to the presence of vitamin B6, the metabolism of glycogen and proteins is normalized. In addition, this vitamin takes an active part in metabolic processes responsible for the body’s production of energy. Regular use of such products can significantly reduce fatigue and fatigue. Like all products put on the market by this manufacturer, the composition includes exclusively ingredients that are safe for health. They ensure the fastest possible recovery of muscle tissue, reliably protect against catabolism, and help burn fat and muscle mass. Each tablet here contains 1 gram of pure BCAA.

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You need to take 4 tablets daily. On training days - two half an hour before the start of classes and the same number immediately after the end of training. If a workout is not planned for the current day, then two tablets will need to be taken between meals. Like most of the compounds included in our review of the best BCAAs today, there are no contraindications for use except for individual intolerance. One daily dose contains as much as 4 grams of amino acids, which contribute to the active development of muscle mass.

Advantages:

Quite a high concentration of nutrients;
Very convenient to use;
Actively helps to get rid of excess fat tissue;
It can be used at various stages of training - when building muscle mass, when working with muscle relief, and so on.

Flaws:

The tablets are a little large - not everyone is comfortable swallowing them, especially just half an hour before the start of a workout.

BCAA 1000 caps (Optimum Nutrition)

This drug has long become a classic of sports nutrition, since with its help you can easily fill the daily requirement of the human body for amino acids. The developer’s products turned out to be very effective. With its help, you can significantly increase the potential of muscle tissue and provide cells with additional nutrition. In turn, this will inevitably lead to their growth. The active substances contained in the product stimulate the destruction of adipose tissue so as not to affect normal muscle cells. When taken regularly, a constant process is launched that synthesizes growth hormone. All catabolic processes are suppressed, so even with intense exercise, muscle cells will not be destroyed.

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You should take two capsules one to three times a day of training, but if the workout is not planned, then you need to swallow two capsules once or twice a day. If necessary, you can contact your own trainer so that he can develop the most effective schedule depending on the state of health, the person’s build and other important points. A jar of capsules takes up a minimal amount of free space in your bag, so you can carry it with you all the time.

Advantages:

Excellent product quality from a time-tested manufacturer;
The small size of the capsules and their streamlined shape ensure maximum ease of use;
There are all the necessary substances in order to achieve maximum results in the shortest possible time.

Flaws:

There are not too many active substances in the capsules themselves, so you have to take several at once, which significantly increases the consumption of the product.

BCAA Caps (Mutant)

Well, we’ve reached the leader of this part of the section of our rating of the best BCAAs designed to actively increase muscle mass. This product is produced in small capsules, so you won’t have to figure out the dosage for a long time. During one day, you need to take 4 capsules, approximately 30-40 minutes before the start of classes. If there is no training that day, then take the composition between meals. The composition here is classic, but there is 57 mg of magnesium and a mixture and 8 electrolytes. With the help of the latter, it is possible to significantly reduce the effect of moisture loss from the muscles. The result of this composition is noticeable literally from its first use. A slight warmth spreads throughout the entire muscle frame and a slight tingling sensation is noticeable.

The body remains energetic throughout the entire session, so the duration of the workout can be doubled at once. It is quite natural that water consumption increases. Literally a couple of weeks after starting to take the capsules, you will be able to notice the active growth of muscle mass, which almost immediately takes on an attractive shape.

Advantages:

Together with amino acids, it contains a large number of different electrolytes that will not allow water to leave the muscle mass;
A well-known and trusted manufacturer, trusted by millions of people around the world;
The capsules have a streamlined shape, making them very convenient to take.

Flaws:

The concentration of useful substances in one capsule is not too high, but this is typical for such formulations;
Quite a high cost of production.