DESCRIPTION:Branched Chain Amino Acids, by Douglas Laboratories
contains a synergistic combination of L-leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-valine and L-Threonine in capsules.
FUNCTIONS:
Amino acids have many functions in the body. They are the building blocks for all body proteins—structural proteins that build muscle, connective tissues, bones and other structures, and functional proteins in the form of thousands of metabolically active enzymes.
Amino acids provide the body with the nitrogen that is essential for growth and maintenance of all tissues and structures.
Aside from these general functions, individual amino acids also have specific functions in many aspects of human physiology and biochemistry. e.g., calcium binding or collagen cross-linking.
L-leucine, L-Isoleucine and L- valine are essential amino acids that must be obtained form the diet, as the body is unable to synthesize them. They are found in skeletal muscle and play important roles in protein synthesis.
Leucine works with Isoleucine and Valine to promote the healing of muscle tissue, skin, and bones; is recommended for those recovering from surgery; lowers blood sugar levels; aids in increasing growth hormone production.
Isoleucine is needed for hemoglobin formation; stabilizes and regulates blood sugar and energy levels; is valuable to athletes because it aids in the healing and repair of muscle tissue, skin and bones; has been found to be deficient in people suffering from certain mental and physical disorders
Valine is needed for muscle metabolism and coordination, tissue repair, and for the maintenance of proper nitrogen balance in the body; used as an energy source by muscle tissue; helpful in treating liver and gallbladder disease; promotes mental vigor and calm emotions
REFERENCES
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Hassmen P, Blomstrand E, Ekblom B, Newsholme EA. Branched-chain amino acid supplementation during 30-km competitive run: mood and cognitive performance. Nutrition. 1994 Sep-Oct;10(5):405-10.
Lehmann M, Huonker M, Dimeo F, Heinz N, Gastmann U, Treis N, Steinacker JM, Keul J, Kajewski R, Haussinger D. Serum amino acid concentrations in nine athletes before and after the 1993 Colmar ultra triathlon. Int J Sports Med. 1995 Apr;16(3):155-9.
Meeusen R, De Meirleir K. Exercise and brain neurotransmission. Sports Med. 1995 Sep;20(3):160-88.
Shimomura Y, Murakami T, Nakai N, Nagasaki M, Harris RA. Exercise promotes BCAA catabolism: effects of BCAA supplementation on skeletal muscle during exercise. J Nutr. 2004 Jun;134(6 Suppl):1583S-1587S.
Sweatt AJ, Garcia-Espinosa MA, Wallin R, Hutson SM. Branched-chain amino acids and neurotransmitter metabolism: expression of cytosolic branched-chain a minotransferase (BCATc) in the cerebellum and hippocampus. J Comp Neurol. 2004 Sep 27;477(4):360-70
