ProtokolPROTOKOL
SupplementEmergingAmino Acid

BCAA

Also known as BCAAs

Half-life

~1-2 hours

What is BCAA?

Branch-chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, valine). Leucine alone can trigger mTORC1.

How BCAA works

Leucine activates mTORC1 directly (independent of amino acid sensors), triggering muscle protein synthesis even in fasted state.

Benefits & uses

  • May support muscle protein synthesis
  • May reduce exercise fatigue
  • Convenient intra-workout amino source

Common uses: Muscle preservation (fasting), anti-catabolic during high training volume, endurance performance.

Muscle

BCAA dosage

Typical dose
5–10 g (2:1:1 leucine ratio)

BCAA half-life

~1-2 hours (plasma)

BCAA side effects

  • May suppress appetite
  • Fasted BCAA use reduces total muscle-building efficacy vs. whole protein + meal
  • Excessive fructose in flavored drinks
  • Well tolerated

Track BCAA in Protokol.

Log doses, model half-lives, check interactions, and line it all up against your bloodwork. Free on iPhone and Android.

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More Amino Acid

For research and educational purposes only. This page is not medical advice and is not a recommendation to use any compound. Many compounds listed are not approved for human use, and some are prescription-only or controlled in your jurisdiction. Dosing figures are reference or observational reports. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing anything. Protokol is for tracking purposes only.