BCAA, also known as Branched-Chain Amino Acids, refers to a group of essential amino acids that includes leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These amino acids are referred to as "essential" because they cannot be produced by the human body and must be obtained from dietary sources or supplements. BCAA supplements are commonly consumed by athletes, bodybuilders, and individuals seeking to improve their exercise performance and muscle growth.
In the body, BCAAs are primarily used for muscle protein synthesis, the process by which new muscle tissue is created. Leucine, in particular, has been shown to stimulate muscle protein synthesis and promote muscle growth. Additionally, BCAAs may also help to reduce muscle soreness and fatigue during intense exercise, making them a popular supplement among athletes.