Amino acids are the building blocks of life, playing a fundamental role in muscle synthesis, energy production and cognitive function.

Not all amino acids are created equal. Some we can produce in the body, while others must come from our diet. The ones we can’t product ourselves are called essential amino acids (EAAs)and three of these stand out for their unique role in muscle growth and recovery: branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs).

What Are Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)?

There are nine essential amino acids – ones that our bodies cannot make – and they must come from food or supplements.

EAAs are critical for protein synthesis, enzyme production, immune function and neurotransmitter balance. Without them, our bodies cannot build and repair tissues effectively, which is why they’re so important for muscle health, recovery and overall health and wellbeing.

The 9 Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)

Of these amino acids, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) – leucine, isoleucine and valine – stand out for their unique benefits that are essential to the human body.

1. LEUCINE: Triggers muscle growth and repair by activating the mTOR pathway. Helps prevent muscle breakdown and supports fat metabolism.
2. ISOLEUCINE: Boosts energy production and muscle recovery. Plays a role in glucose uptake and metabolism and supports immune function.
3. VALINE: Supports muscle repair, endurance and energy production. Helps reduce muscle breakdown during exercise.
4. HISTIDINE: Essential for growth, tissue repair and immune function. Precursor to histamine, important for digestion and sleep-wake cycles.
5. LYSINE: Supports collagen production, immune health and calcium absorption. Crucial for muscle recovery and antiviral defense.
6. METHIONINE: Key for detoxification, metabolism and antioxidant production. Helps form cysteine, supporting skin, hair and liver health.
7. PHENYLALANINE: Converts into dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine, supporting mood, motivation and focus.
8. THREONINE: Supports immune function, gut health and collagen production. Helps maintain skin, teeth and connective tissues.
9. TRYPTOPHAN: Converts into serotonin and melatonin, regulating mood, sleep and relaxation.

5 Ways Amino Acids and BCAAs Support the Body

1. Muscle growth & repair: Leucine is a powerful activator of muscle protein synthesis (MPS) through the mTORC1 pathway. Studies have shown that leucine-enriched EAA supplementation post-exercise increases MPS significantly, supporting muscle growth and repair.
2. Fatigue resistance & endurance: BCAA supplementation reduces central fatigue by competing with tryptophan for transport across the blood-brain barrier, thereby modulating serotonin levels and improving endurance.
3. Muscle damage & recovery: Studies show that BCAAs reduce markers of muscle damage (e.g., creatine kinase levels) and alleviate delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after strenuous workouts. This means faster recovery and less post-workout discomfort.
4. Energy metabolism & mitochondrial health: BCAAs support mitochondrial biogenesis and function, contributing to better energy production and metabolic health. They play a key role in ATP production, reducing oxidative stress and enhancing cellular efficiency.
5. Cognitive function: Amino acids are vital for brain health. BCAAs influence neurotransmitter balance, improving reaction times and cognitive performance under stress.
   
   

The Protein Debate

There’s been a lot of recent focus on protein intake, but did you know that there is actually an ongoing debate about whether specific amino acids (especially essential amino acids and BCAAs) may be more critical for muscle synthesis and metabolic health than just total protein intake? Of course, the quality of the protein and issues around digestion need to be considered as they impact effectiveness.

Recent research highlights the unique roles of essential amino acids, particularly BCAAs, in triggering muscle protein synthesis. However, ongoing studies will clarify how best to balance amino acids and whole protein sources for optimal health in the coming years.

There is growing discussion about whether targeted amino acid supplementation may be as important as total protein intake for muscle health and recovery.

Multi VMN: Supercharge Your Day

The Only Multi with Amino Acids?

Multi VMN includes a clinically formulated blend of amino acids, including leucine, isoleucine, valine, lysine and methionine, ensuring comprehensive support for energy, muscle repair and cognitive function. This makes it a powerful choice for individuals experiencing fatigue, low mood or those with increased nutritional needs due to lifestyle demands.

Give Back Health Clinic Collection Multi VMN is a practitioner-only product under the Give Back Health Clinic Collection.

To buy Multi VMN:

• Ask your healthcare practitioner or in-store naturopath for Multi VMN.
• Healthcare practitioners: Purchase via our AU/NZ distributors or direct if registered.

DISCLAIMER: Speak with a registered healthcare practitioner before taking supplements or vitamins. Always read the label and follow directions. If symptoms persist, talk to your healthcare provider.

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