TOP-7 rating of the best amino acids: BCAA, for mass gain and muscle growth
Amino acids are organic compounds that are essential for the body and, above all, muscles. This is why it is so important that amino acid preparations are of the proper quality. What are the best amino acids to use in sports nutrition for muscle growth? The article offers an overview of preparations in powder and tablets with reviews from coaches and athletes. Proven Amino Acid Complexes with Prices, Pros and Cons.
What to look for when choosing amino acids?
When choosing an amino acid, the branched chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine) should be preferred in a 2: 1: 1 ratio. This ratio has the greatest scientific support for BCAAs. Then look for a naturally sweetened product with little or no sugar. Simple amino acids taste bad, which is why most companies use artificial sweeteners to mask the taste. It's best to avoid artificial sweeteners and find a brand that doesn't contain them. However, in practice, you have to put up with this drawback and drink those that you like more to taste. Choose a product that contains additional ergogenic amino acids such as ß-alanine, citrulline, arginine, and glutamine. They can also improve performance and recovery, as well as further stimulate protein synthesis or reduce protein breakdown.
Best Powdered Amino Acids
Amino acids are available in powder form, which can be dissolved in water or other beverages to provide the body with the correct dose of fluid. Amino acid supplements are often available in a variety of flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, or fruit.
The ranking of the best powdered amino acids includes:
Ami NO Xpress (Scitec Nutrition)
The food supplement is made from high quality ingredients that do not contain harmful substances that can cause unwanted side effects. This product is easy to digest and contains the finest micronized amino acids in a single dose, which accelerates the absorption of active ingredients, including BCAA amino acids. In addition, the product is fortified with micronized L-arginine, pure L-citrulline, malic acid and L-arginine alpha-ketoglutarate. All of these ingredients, additional vitamins and minerals will eliminate fatigue, allowing you to extend each workout.
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Release form | powder |
| Volume | 440 g |
| Serving Contents | 22 g |
| Manufacturer country | Hungary |
pros
- balanced composition;
- optimal dosage;
- does not contain prohibited amplifiers;
- easy to digest;
- the result is immediately visible.
Minuses
- high price;
- aftertaste;
- poorly soluble.
Testimonial: “The powder dissolves well, acts quickly and leaves no aftertaste in the mouth. Plus it's really tasty and very effective. I recommend it to people who are mainly focused on product quality. ”
Essential Amino Energy (Optimum Nutrition)
A powerful and effective supplement for physically active people, it satisfies the body's need for essential amino acids that the body cannot synthesize on its own. Combines an optimal, fast-absorbing ratio of free forms of amino acids, including BCAAs for muscle building and the natural energy of arginine and beta-alanine. It contains essential nutrients for the production of nitric oxide, which is an important part of building large, solid muscles in a short time. The composition contains stimulating caffeine obtained from green tea, thanks to which training will be more effective.
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Release form | powder |
| Volume | 270 g |
| Serving Contents | 9 g |
| Manufacturer country | USA |
pros
- fast regeneration;
- stimulates the production of nitric oxide;
- reduces fatigue and lethargy;
- increases the ability to concentrate;
- variety of flavors.
Minuses
- taste and smell;
- small volume;
- price.
Testimonial: “I started to work out hard in the gym, and the trainer advised me to buy a complex of amino acids for better recovery. I chose this brand and never regretted it. Endurance increased several times, there are no side effects after taking it ”.
Maxler glutamine
It is a complete product that provides an optimal dose of glutamine in the body. The specified amino acid effectively supports a number of processes in the body, including: stimulates the synthesis of muscle proteins, increases the concentration of hormones, removes acid-base balance and unnecessary ammonia from the body. L-Glutamine effectively supports the immune system while protecting against disease. Using a dietary supplement prevents muscle damage and replenishes glutamine stores during and after exercise.
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Release form | powder |
| Volume | 300 g |
| Serving Contents | 5 g |
| Manufacturer country | Germany |
pros
- quality;
- strengthens the immune system;
- adds stamina;
- promotes muscle building;
- easy to digest.
Minuses
- high price;
- aftertaste.
Feedback: “I have been using this product for a long time, it is really effective, it adds energy during training, acts as additional motivation. I am completely satisfied! ”.
Be First Beta Alanine Powder
The product contains the most important amino acid of the highest quality - beta-alanine, which perfectly supports the body for a long time and intense training. It is a precursor to carnosine (a natural buffering agent). The main benefit of the supplement is the reduction in muscle fiber acidification, which leads to a rapid increase in strength and performance during exercise. Regular supplementation will help maintain adequate muscle mass and accelerate full body regeneration after each workout.
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Release form | powder |
| Volume | 200, 300 g |
| Serving Contents | 4 g |
| Manufacturer country | Russia |
pros
- dissolves easily;
- no aftertaste;
- no harmful additives;
- increases endurance;
- fast regeneration.
Minuses
- small volume;
- price.
Testimonial: “Excellent amino acids that I have been using for several seasons. Ideal before starting a stronger workout, good for recovery.
Best Amino Acids in Tablets / Capsules
Amino acids are also available in tablet and capsule form. When using them, there is no need to worry about stirring, wearing a shaker and spending time dissolving the powder. They are more convenient to use, and in terms of speed, both tablets and powder begin to act after approximately the same period of time.
The TOP of the best amino acids in capsules includes:
NOW GABA
Gaba is a non-protein amino acid that is found in the brain. It contains vitamin B6, which supports the calming effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid by regulating the nervous system. It soothes, helps fight fatigue and improves concentration. It also has a positive effect on people who exercise intensively. Increases and accelerates regeneration, promotes fat burning. Becomes an assistant in building muscle mass and has an anabolic effect. It is also important that the drug makes it easier to fall asleep.
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Release form | capsules |
| Volume | 100 pieces |
| Serving Contents | 500 mg |
| Manufacturer country | USA |
pros
- a large number of capsules in the package;
- effective drug;
- soothes;
- normalizes sleep;
- helps build muscle;
- adds stamina.
Minuses
- has a hypnotic effect upon completion of the action of the drug;
- side effects in the form of anxiety.
Review: “Very good supplement, excellent value for money. It works well with intensive training, my working capacity has increased significantly ”.
Olimp Labs L-Glutamine Mega Caps
It is a formulation containing 100% pharmaceutical micronized form of glutamine, an amino acid found in high concentrations in muscle and plasma. Increases strength and muscle mass. Has a strong anti-catabolic effect - inhibits the activity of enzymes that destroy muscle proteins. Accelerates the reduction of adipose tissue. Relieves symptoms of fatigue by reducing acidification of muscle cells. The drug also strengthens the immune system.
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Release form | capsules |
| Volume | 120, 300 pcs |
| Serving Contents | 1400 mg |
| Manufacturer country | Poland |
pros
- a large number of capsules in the package;
- strengthens the immune system;
- increases endurance;
- promotes muscle building;
- helps to easily recover from hard workouts.
Minuses
- not suitable for everyone;
- may induce drowsiness upon completion of the action.
Testimonial: “A good nutritional supplement that supports the results achieved. It's also a good anti-catabolic. ”
BCAA Scitec Nutrition BCAA 6400
It is a high quality BCAA amino acid complex. Its main functions are: limiting the breakdown and enhancing the recovery of proteins, improving nitrogen balance, regulating fat and carbohydrate metabolism. BCAA amino acids contain the three most important components: leucine - accelerates regeneration after exercise, protects muscles from breakdown and supports muscle growth, isoleucine - inhibits catabolism, valine - improves protein synthesis, accelerates regeneration, prevents muscle breakdown and improves energy production. The product is made in the form of tablets, so they can be taken at any time with water.
| Characteristic | Meaning |
| Release form | pills |
| Volume | 375 pc |
| Serving Contents | L-Leucine: 2240 mg L-Isoleucine: 1120 mg L-Valine: 1120 mg |
| Manufacturer country | Hungary |
pros
- helps to increase muscle mass;
- large volume of packaging;
- increases endurance;
- burns fat;
- no side effects.
Minuses
- bitter taste;
- inconvenient large jar.
Review: “I run many kilometers, so I use BCAA's for post-workout recovery. A big difference, especially the next day. The body is less tired and ready for the next workout. ”
Which is better protein or amino acids?
Protein powders and amino acid supplements produce different results.
Protein Benefits:
“Protein powders made from whey and casein, egg white or soy protein are sources of quality protein containing all the essential amino acids. They cover the daily increased protein requirements for sports. Amino acid supplements do not meet the daily protein requirement and, in large doses, can cause metabolic imbalances. For example, consuming too much leucine, one of the three branched-chain amino acids, can lower blood levels of the other two. ”
Benefits of amino acids:
“In addition to making proteins, certain amino acids have specific functions that directly affect health outside of protein metabolism. One example is tryptophan, which is converted to the mood-regulating neurotransmitter serotonin. Supplementation can improve the physiological functions of these amino acids. Supplemental creatine increases muscle strength and performance during high-intensity short-term exercise. ”
There is a huge supply of BCAA preparations in the nutritional supplement market. It is worth choosing those from which you can get the most benefit and achieve excellent results. Their list is listed in this rating, so you won't have to look for a suitable drug for a long time.
