Amino acids evolved about 4.5 billion years ago to become the basis of life on Planet Earth. Twenty amino acids are the building blocks of protein and the “construction material” of muscles, vital organs and virtually every other part of your body’s lean mass.


Scientists have learned that three linked essential amino acids—leucine, isoleucine and valine, called Branched—Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) serve as a critical source of muscle energy as well as nutrition for muscle repair. In fact, the very fibers that make up muscles are themselves "constructed" of these BCAAs. Unlike other amino acids, which are mostly metabolized in the liver, BCAAs are metabolized in the muscle tissue itself. Without a sufficient supply, your muscles begin to feel tired and sore during exercise. In contrast, a plentiful supply of BCAAs makes you feel energized—and helps muscles recover and rebuild much faster. And during and after exertion, two other amino acids, arginine and glutamine, work to synthesize proteins, remove harmful toxins and strengthen the body’s immune system.