BCAA stands for ‘branched-chain amino acids’ and EAA stands for ‘essential amino acids’. There are three BCAA: Leucine, isoleucine, and valine. The body uses BCAA to produce glucose, which slows down the breakdown of muscle tissue. EAA are nine nutrients: Leucine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine – all of which come from the diet or supplementation and are vital for protein synthesis. Both types of supplement are used to build muscle, increase strength, improve endurance, speed up recovery and improve performance while you train. EAA include BCAA but not usually in the same amounts as standalone BCAA supplements.
