BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)

The branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are leucine, isoleucine, and valine.  BCAAs are considered essential amino acids because human beings cannot survive unless these amino acids are present in the diet.

BCAAs are needed for the maintenance of muscle tissue and appear to preserve muscle stores of glycogen (a storage form of carbohydrate that can be converted into energy). BCAAs also help prevent muscle protein breakdown during exercise.

Most diets provide an adequate amount of BCAA which is about 25–65 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight. However, athletes involved in intense training often take 5 grams of leucine, 4 grams of valine, and 2 grams of isoleucine per day to prevent muscle loss and to increase muscle gain.

Exercise, Hydration and Electrolytes

When you exercise heavily, you lose water and salt in your sweat. Especially in hot weather, or if you are exercising strenuously or over an extended period (or both), it is critical to keep hydrated (i.e., drink enough fluids) and maintain your electrolyte balance.

One good source of needed electrolytes is Emergen-C^®.  Emergen-C has an advantage over water alone because it is packed with the potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium and sugar to provide electrolyte replenishment and energy during such workouts.

Athletes can stave off fatigue longer if they drink water fortified with Emergen-C.   They also run faster, have better motor skills, and are mentally sharper.  The electrolytes in Emergen-C help athletes stay hydrated by holding onto fluids instead of losing them.

Though Emergen-C does contain sugar, the amount of sugar in the drink is relatively small compared to the amount of sugar someone burns in exercise. For those of you concerned with the sugar content in Emergen-C, keep in mind that sugar aids in the transport of electrolytes into your tissues. The carbohydrates, sodium, and potassium help move fluid more quickly into the muscles, where it needs to be during exercise. For people engaging in exercise in a hot environment, an electrolyte replacer, such as Emergen-C can be a lifesaver. It provides the body with fuel in the right quantities, so you also don’t get an upset stomach.

For those individuals with Diabetes, keep in mind that electrolytes can also be supplemented through tablets. I recommend Endurolytes electrolyte replenishment tabs, as they offer the same benefits as Emergen-C, without the sugar!  If you do use Endurolytes, be sure you still consume enough water to keep hydrated! You can purchase Endurolytes through me.

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