Ammonia Toxicity (Rare)

High BCAA intake, especially in individuals with liver impairment or urea cycle disorders, can theoretically lead to ammonia toxicity and associated neurological symptoms due to impaired ammonia processing.

Ammonia toxicity, though rare, can occur when the liver is unable to efficiently process nitrogenous waste products, including ammonia, generated from BCAA metabolism. This is particularly relevant in individuals with pre-existing liver dysfunction or certain metabolic disorders affecting the urea cycle. Elevated ammonia levels in the bloodstream (hyperammonemia) can lead to a range of neurological symptoms, including confusion, disorientation, lethargy, tremors, seizures, and in severe cases, coma and death. The severity of ammonia toxicity depends on the degree of liver impairment, the amount of BCAAs ingested, and individual metabolic capacity. Symptoms may develop gradually or rapidly, depending on these factors.