Okay, this tirade is for all of you physique builders and “gym experts” out there. Many individuals believe that all you need is adequate protein and that there is no need for branch-chain amino acids (BCAA) or amino acids (AA). This is true if you are not lifting or are not lifting seriously. If you go to the gym more to converse than to see the effects on your physique, eat protein or take a protein supplement.

The “just protein” brigade doesn’t comprehend digestion and absorption, as well as amino acid requirements. For example, the vitamin or AA you should concentrate on after lifting is L-Leucine. This AA has the highest protein production rate of any AA. As a result, many serious lifters, like myself, take 2-3 grams of protein after lifting. When you eat a protein, your body must correctly ground it (chew) and then clean it with acid (stomach acid), which can only occur if you are calm and not in a stressed-out mental state.

The protein is then digested by digestive enzymes secreted by your liver. Your pancreas must then supply digestive enzymes to complete the breakdown. Your probiotics will then finish the digestion and begin to devour it and make additional necessary molecules. Now follows the absorption phase, in which your body eventually absorbs all of those nutrients. This could take several hours to complete. This means you lose your 20-45 minute window of absorption after working out, which is important to get the most out of your gym time. Taking BCAA, AA, or collagen, on the other hand, helps to minimize or eliminate this time lag entirely.

BCAA may be absorbed significantly faster, providing your body with the necessary chemicals to begin repairing muscle tissue straight away. This will reduce overall soreness and allow you to use the muscle more quickly. This permits you to concentrate on other regions of your body. For example, all back demands a little bicep training, whereas all chest need a little triceps work. Another difficulty is that you wouldn’t eat a steak straight before bed, would you? So you take your collagen immediately before bed to allow your body to recover and repair itself at night. Collagen contains no calories, fat, or carbohydrates. So, certainly, BCAA and AA are essential if you want to see results.

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Dr. Matt Chalmers

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Before taking any action based on this information you should first consult with your physician or health care provider. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions regarding a medical condition, your health, or wellness.