HealthyPIG Magazine

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) are essential nutrients and include leucine, isoleucine and valine. They are found in meat, dairy products and legumes. Branched-chain amino acids stimulate protein formation in muscles and may reduce muscle breakdown. "Branched" refers to the chemical structure of these amino acids. BCAAs are used to treat decreased brain function and movement disorders often caused by antipsychotic medications in patients with advanced liver disease. They are also commonly used to enhance athletic performance, prevent fatigue, reduce muscle breakdown, and other purposes, but there is not enough reliable information to support these other uses.