Amino acids are molecules that form proteins, which are considered the building blocks of life. Our body requires amino acids as they produce proteins. There are 20+ amino acids, but only 20 are included in the protein composition, out of which 9 of them are considered essential, and the rest are non-essential. Some of these acids can be synthesized inside the body and are considered non-essential. At the same time, other amino acids should be sourced externally for protein synthesis. These acids can be found in red meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds, beans, leafy green vegetables, fruits, and grains.
BCAA, branched-chain Amino Acid, is a group of three essential amino acids; leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Yes, they are a part of amino acids, but they are also different due to their branched-chain structure. They are usually found in meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, soy products, and legumes. While amino acids and BCAAs provide protein to the body, BCAAs get more attention in the sports supplement market. There is a heavy debate about BCAA vs. Amino Acid.
Amino Acids Vs. BCAA: The Main Difference
Amino acids help develop protein in our body and are divided into essential amino acids and non-essential amino acids. The BCAA are the three essential amino acids and have a different structure than the rest of the amino acids. BCAA is required by those with protein deficiency in supplements or food, and it has a lot of contribution to muscle growth and recovery. In contrast, amino acids can be synthesized in the body and sourced through a daily diet, and they offer a varied range of functions. BCAA can only be sourced from food, unlike amino acids. Most Amino acids are metabolized in the liver, whereas BCAA is metabolized in muscle. So, to settle the debate between BCAA vs. Amino Acids, the answer depends on your body's requirement. Those with protein deficiency will benefit largely from BCAA; on the other hand, those with no protein deficiency will do well with Amino acids.
Which One Should You Take? BCAA Vs. Amino Acid?
The answer to whether you should take amino acids or BCAA will vary depending on your body’s requirement. We all require amino acids as our body needs protein, but you will need BCAA if you have protein deficiency or you are into intense muscle training. So, it is not a matter of which one is better, but your body’s requirements. While you can source both Amino Acids and BCAA for your body through your diet, not everyone can maintain a balanced diet. In such situations, you can supplement it to your body in the form of patches or protein powder, depending on your preference.
If you are into fitness and work out for weight loss or muscle building, you will require Amino Acids and BCAA. Several Amino Acids for Weight Loss supplements contain BCAA, essential if you work out. These supplements not only aid in weight loss and can prevent muscle injuries, help in muscle recovery, and more. So, if you are still stuck on BCAA vs. Amino Acids and which one you should take, the answer will depend on your lifestyle and your body's requirements.
The Advantages and Disadvantages: BCAA Vs. Amino Acids
For a better answer to BCAA vs. Amino Acids, let’s look at their advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Amino Acids
While BCAA is more popular in the sports industry, amino acids can also aid in muscle formation. If you are into muscle building, you will benefit better from amino acids. As discussed above, amino acids are building blocks of protein, and since they do not go through a digestive breakdown, they get absorbed quickly. The disadvantage of amino acids is that they are low in calories. While this is seen as a disadvantage to some, it is advantageous for those striving to lose weight. If your goal is to lose weight, try Amino Acids for Weight Loss supplements available at Shea’s Apothecary in the form of patches.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of BCAA
The main advantage of BCAA is that it can help retain muscle. BCAA supplements will give your body the required protein for energy and muscle retention for those who are into heavy workouts. Another significant advantage is that they work faster than amino acids as they do not undergo digestion. The disadvantage of BCAA is for those who are into muscle building, as BCAA alone is not enough to grow muscle.
Now that we weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both amino acids and BCAA, you must have a clearer answer to your BCAA vs. Amino Acids. If you want to lose weight and you require both amino acids and BCAA, you will need to look for a quality Amino Acids for Weight Loss supplement that contains both.
The Best Amino Acids
While there may not be a rank regarding the best amino acids, there is a list of the essential amino acids that contain nine out of the twenty. The essential amino acids include; Phenylalanine, Valine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Methionine, Leucine, Isoleucine, Lysine, and Histidine. Out of these nine essential amino acids, Valine, Isoleucine, and Leucine are BCAA. These essential amino acids play an integral part in all the vital processes in the body. They aid in muscle growth and retention, energy production, boost immune function, and help absorb nutrients. So, if you are looking for a list of the best amino acids, you can begin with the essential amino acids. When it comes to the essential amino acids, there is no debate between BCAA vs. Amino Acids, as both are included in the list.
Where To Get Amino Acid Supplement For Your Fitness Journey?
There are numerous amino acid supplements out there in the market as it is an extremely popular market, especially now, as many people view fitness as a lifestyle. The supplements come in various forms; powder, patches, tablets, gummies, and more. The choice usually depends on the preference and the effectiveness. While there are many options available in the market, if you are looking for an effective supplement for Amino Acids for Weight Loss, consider Shea’s Apothecary’s Amino Fitness patches. Our adhesive patch can be placed directly on the skin and is known for its effectiveness. Topical patches are known to be ten times more effective than oral pills, so if you are looking for an effective weight loss patch, this patch will do wonders. The formula of this topical health patch includes Phenylalanine, Valine, Tryptophan, Methionine, Leucine, Isoleucine, and Lysine.
Conclusion
We require amino acids and BCAA as they play an important part in our body. While there is a debate between the two, BCAA vs. Amino Acids, on which one’s better, there is no right answer as it depends on your body's requirement and goal.
Looking for an amino acid supplement containing BCAAs and Amino Acids for your fitness journey? Head to Shea’s Apothecary website and check out our Amino Fitness Topical Health Patch. Our product will give your body the required specific dose of supplement effectively.
