NOW® Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA's) are 3 essential amino acids which are abundant in muscles. The branched chain amino acids Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine are three of the eight essential amino acids that the human body mut receive in food. These amino acids cannot be synthesized in the liver.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein molecules. When we consume a protein source, our digestive system breaks it down into amino acids which then enter the blood stream and are taken up by the cells of our body as a building material. In a state of deficiency, some amino acids can be synthesized by the human body (non-essential amino acids.) Those which cannot be internally manufactured are referred to as "essential." Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA's) is the name given to the group of 3 essential amino acids Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine.

BCAA's are unique in that our skeletal muscles prefer them as fuel and for building muscle. In addition, in their simplest form they have no calories! This means that, used properly, they have the potential to accelerate muscular growth and/or fat burning. As a result, BCAA's are an important supplement in the arsenal of body-builders and dieters alike. Below are some common applications for the use of BCAA's toward various fitness goals.

Muscle Growth: Consume 3g of BCAA's one half hour prior to resistance training. This will help provide fuel to get you through a rigorous workout while ensuring the fuel is a good source for promoting muscle growth. It is also a good idea to consume 3g of BCAA's every morning following a training day as the muscles have not had access to any nutrients while you were sleeping.

Fat Burning: Consume 3g of BCAA's prior to any exercise session, and with one or more meals daily. Again, the BCAA's provide fuel for the workout with little to no calories which promotes fat loss while protecting your muscles. As a compliment to a low calorie diet, BCAA's allow you to provide essential nutrients to your muscles while minimizing caloric intake.

Directions: As a dietary supplement, take 4 capsules 1-2 times daily, on an empty stomach especially before and after exercise.