Build muscle, recover faster, and stay hydrated with our proven EAA formulation.
BBCOM Editors
January 3, 2025
What Are EAAs?
Essential amino acids (EAAs) are the nine amino acids that the human body cannot produce on its own. Humans must eat food containing histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine to function properly. EAAs are critical for protein synthesis, tissue repair, and enzyme and neurotransmitter production.
Why EAAs Instead of BCAAs?
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are a great supplement because they contain the three most important amino acids: leucine for protein synthesis, isoleucine for energy production, and valine for muscle repair and growth. EAAs provide the full spectrum of amino acids including the big three of BCAAs. Supplementing EAAs will help you have all the amino acids for your workouts and recovery.
Why Choose Signature EAAs?
Bodybuilding.com’s Signature EAA supplement offers a proven formulation to help you build more muscle, recover faster, and help you keep hydrated. In a single 10g serving, you get 5.2g of BCAAs at a 2:1:1 ratio of leucine, isoleucine, and valine; plus histidine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, and tryptophan; as well as electrolytes: sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
Overview of Nine Essential Amino Acids
1. Leucine
Leucine is arguably the most important amino acid for lifters because it triggers muscle protein synthesis via the mTOR pathway. Leucine is also the most prevalent amino acid in muscle tissue.
2. Isoleucine
Isoleucine enhances glucose uptake into cells, providing fuel for muscles. Isoleucine also plays a role in muscle recovery and endurance and supports muscle tissue repair especially after a hard workout.
3. Valine
Valine helps prevent muscle breakdown by being oxidized for energy during exercise, as well as supports endurance and reduces muscle fatigue during long workouts. Valine works alongside leucine and isoleucine to preserve muscle mass.
4. Lysine
Lysine plays a key role in collagen formation and tissue repair. It also supports immune function and hormone production and is essential for calcium absorption and the production of carnitine, which converts fatty acids into energy.
5. Methionine
Methionine supports liver function and detoxification, this amino acid also aids in producing cysteine, a precursor to glutathione (a potent antioxidant). It is critical for the metabolism and breakdown of fats.
6. Phenylalanine
Phenylalanine is a precursor to neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, which are important for mood and mental focus. It’s also helpful when it comes to protein synthesis and tissue repair.
7. Threonine
Threonine is involved with immune function, collagen production, and fat metabolism and is crucial for the production of glycine and serine—amino acids that play roles in muscle repair. It also helps maintain the structural integrity of muscles and connective tissues.
8. Tryptophan
Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite, this amino acid plays a role in the production of niacin (vitamin B3) and in protein synthesis. It’s also helpful in reducing fatigue and supporting recovery by promoting better sleep and relaxation.
9. Histidine
Histidine is a precursor to histamine, which plays a role in immune function and digestive health. It’s important for tissue growth and repair, particularly in muscles and connective tissues. This amino acid also works hand-in-hand with beta-alanine to form carnosine, which helps buffer acid in muscles during high-intensity exercise, reducing fatigue.
Takeaways
By incorporating this EAA supplement, particularly during workouts, you ensure your body has the complete set of amino acids needed to fuel muscle growth, prevent breakdown, and maximize your recovery. Our top quality Signature EAA are a comprehensive solution for anyone looking to make gains without having to take several days off due to overtraining or setbacks.
