BCAA – Branched-Chain Amino Acids: Muscle Performance, Accelerated Recovery and Endurance – Essential Support for Intense Training

BCAA Branched-Chain Amino Acids, NOW Foods is a concentrated formula of L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine and L-Valine in approximately 2:1:1 ratio, designed to support protein synthesis, recovery and endurance during and after workouts. Per serving (4 capsules), it provides 2.6 g (2,600 mg) of BCAA, with typical intake of L-leucine 1,170–1,400 mg, L-isoleucine 570–700 mg and L-valine 570–700 mg. These essential amino acids cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained from diet or supplementation; unlike many other amino acids, BCAAs are metabolized in muscles, making them particularly useful for intense physical effort, strength sports and endurance activities.

The NOW Foods formula emphasizes purity and efficiency, with a clean profile you can easily integrate into your training routine. Whether your goal is muscle mass increase, fiber maintenance in caloric deficit or shortening recovery times, BCAAs in 2:1:1 ratio provide the necessary foundation to support positive adaptations to effort.

Detailed Benefits of BCAA Branched-Chain Amino Acids

• Protein synthesis and muscle growth/maintenance

Leucine is recognized as the "trigger amino acid" of mTOR, the metabolic pathway involved in initiating muscle protein synthesis. Alongside isoleucine and valine, leucine contributes to providing the "building blocks" necessary for muscle structure repair.
✅ Supports initiation of protein synthesis after effort
✅ Contributes to muscle mass growth or maintenance
✅ Provides essential substrate for fiber regeneration

• Accelerated recovery after workouts

After intense effort, muscles need rapidly available amino acids. BCAAs help restore reserves and can support a more favorable response to frequent training. Integrating a BCAA serving into daily routine can become a key factor for more efficient recovery between sessions.
✅ Supports reducing muscle fatigue sensation
✅ Favors shorter recovery times
✅ Helps maintain training volume long-term

• Anti-catabolic protection during caloric deficit periods

During diet or periods with limited protein intake, muscles can be vulnerable to catabolic processes. BCAAs provide a metabolic buffer, contributing to protecting lean mass when calories are reduced.
✅ Supports muscle mass conservation during "cutting"
✅ May reduce protein degradation under metabolic stress conditions
✅ Helps maintain performance during diet periods

• Energy for effort and sustained endurance

BCAAs can be directly oxidized in muscles for energy, especially during prolonged workouts. Alongside adequate carbohydrate intake, they can support endurance effort and contribute to maintaining a constant work rhythm.
✅ Contributes to prolonged effort in endurance training
✅ Provides additional energy support at muscle level
✅ Helps maintain intensity across sets and series

• Focus and effort perception

The 2:1:1 ratio is appreciated for its balance in supporting clarity and focus during demanding workouts. Good mental state in the gym often translates to cleaner technique and better results long-term.
✅ Supports coherence and discipline in training
✅ Contributes to more favorable effort perception
✅ Helps maintain concentration during heavy sets

• Completing daily protein intake

Even with a proper diet, moments between meals can leave "gaps" in amino acid intake. BCAAs are a practical solution to rapidly deliver essential amino acids where you need them – especially around workouts.
✅ Can be integrated between meals for constant intake
✅ Easy to combine with shakes, water or isotonic drinks
✅ Helps cover requirements in busy schedules

• Muscle definition and lean mass quality

Smart training, proper nutrition and BCAA supplementation can contribute to superior muscle mass quality, emphasizing shape, tone and firmness.
✅ Supports muscle sculpting and definition
✅ Contributes to fuller and denser appearance
✅ Useful in preparation phases for competitions or photo shoots

• Versatility for any type of sport

From strength and bodybuilding to cross-training, running, cycling or team sports, BCAAs in 2:1:1 ratio represent a universal support tool. Whether you're aiming for squat PRs or consistent tempo run kilometers, the NOW Foods formula fits your routine.
✅ Suitable for power and endurance training
✅ Simple to dose alongside your current regimen
✅ Compatible with diverse nutritional strategies

This profile offers you flexibility and predictability around workouts, supporting critical processes of protein synthesis, recovery and performance. BCAA Branched-Chain Amino Acids, NOW Foods is the practical and efficient choice for those who want to maximize their results – whether the goal is muscle mass increase, muscle quality maintenance or a more alert recovery rhythm between demanding sessions.

Directions for use

Take 4 capsules twice daily before meals or physical exercise.



 

Other ingredients

Hypromellose (cellulose capsule) and stearic acid (vegetable source).
Not manufactured with wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish or tree nut ingredients. Produced in a GMP facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.

Warnings

Store in a cool, dry, dark place after opening.
Caution: For adults only. Consult physician if pregnant/nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.
Natural color variation may occur in this product.