Typical dose
5-20 grams per day, often divided into doses bef...
Oral
Oral safety: low
About this supplement
BCAA (Branched-Chain Amino Acid) capsules or tablets are dietary supplements containing the three essential branched-chain amino acids: L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine. These amino acids are termed 'essential' because the human body cannot synthesize them; they must be obtained through diet or supplementation. BCAAs are metabolized primarily in skeletal muscle rather than the liver, making them crucial for muscle protein synthesis, energy production during exercise, and recovery. They are commonly used by athletes, bodybuilders, and individuals seeking to support muscle maintenance, reduce exercise-induced fatigue, and improve exercise performance. The typical ratio found in supplements is 2:1:1 (leucine:isoleucine:valine), though other ratios exist. BCAAs also play roles in neurotransmitter synthesis, immune function, and glucose homeostasis.
How much to take
- Typical amount
- 5-20 grams per day, often divided into doses before, during, or after exercise.
- Suggested range
- 5-20 g daily
Potential benefits
Benefits linked to this supplement form:
Things to watch for
Possible side effects linked to this form:
Health goals
Needs and goals this form may help with:
Other forms of BCAAs
Compare absorption and active amounts with sibling forms:
BCAA Capsules
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Technical details â–¼
Chemical ID (CAS)
61-90-5 (L-Leucine), 73-32-5 (L-Isoleucine), 72-18-4 (L-Valine)
Formula
C6H13NO2 (L-Leucine), C6H13NO2 (L-Isoleucine), C5H11NO2 (L-Valine)
Physical properties
In capsule/tablet form: Typically white to off-white crystalline powder compressed or encapsulated. Individual BCAAs are crystalline, odorless solids with a slightly bitter taste. Soluble in water. Hygroscopic (can absorb moisture).
How it’s made
BCAAs are produced industrially via microbial fermentation, typically using genetically modified strains of Corynebacterium glutamicum or Escherichia coli. The process involves fermentation of carbohydrate sources (e.g., molasses, corn syrup), followed by downstream purification steps including filtration, ion exchange, crystallization, and drying to obtain pharmaceutical-grade L-amino acids.