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L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)

Research reviewed: Up until 03/2026

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine) is a dietary supplement with 35 published peer-reviewed studies involving 1,415 participants, researched for Muscle Building & Recovery, Athletic Performance, Muscle Protein Synthesis and 8 more areas.

35
Studies
1,415
Participants
1997–2026
Research Span

Evidence at a Glance

Strength is scored by study design, sample size, study type, and outcomes

Overall: Strong Evidence

Muscle Building & Recovery

Moderate
3 studies 1 of 3 positive 761 participants 2 human

Athletic Performance

Moderate
3 studies 1 of 3 positive 24 participants 2 human

Muscle Protein Synthesis

Moderate
3 studies 0 of 3 positive 0 participants 2 human

Liver Disease Support

Weak
2 studies 0 of 2 positive 16 participants 1 human

Sarcopenia & Muscle Mass in Elderly

Moderate
2 studies 0 of 2 positive 35 participants 1 human

Muscle Damage & Recovery Enhancement

Weak
2 studies 1 of 2 positive 0 participants 1 human

Endurance Performance & Fatigue

Moderate
2 studies 1 of 2 positive 0 participants

Post-Exercise Recovery & Adaptation

Weak
1 study 0 of 1 positive 0 participants 0 human

Cancer-Related Muscle Wasting & Cachexia

Weak
2 studies 0 of 2 positive 0 participants 0 human

Systematic reviews

Weak
6 studies 0 of 6 positive 511 participants 0 human

Clinical trials

Moderate
9 studies 2 of 9 positive 68 participants

Research Visualised

Visual breakdown of the clinical data.

Study Quality Breakdown

What types of studies were conducted

20/35
Randomised
16/35
Double-Blind
15/35
Placebo-Controlled

Participants Per Study

Larger samples = more reliable results

Study 1 (2006)
36
Study 2 (2017)
700
Study 3 (1997)
25
Study 1 (2017)
24
Study 2 (2020)
0
Study 3 (2024)
0
Study 1 (2019)
0
Study 2 (2021)
0

Research Timeline

When the studies were published

1
1997
1
2006
1
2016
2
2017
1
2018
1
2019
2
2020
3
2021
4
2023
7
2024
11
2025
1
2026

All Studies

Detailed breakdown of each trial. Click to expand.

Muscle Building & Recovery

1

To assess BCAAs on muscle protein synthesis and resistance exercise adaptations.

2006 36 participants 8 weeks BCAA 20g daily (leucine-enriched 2:1:1 ratio)
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To assess BCAAs on muscle protein synthesis and resistance exercise adaptations.

Dose

BCAA 20g daily (leucine-enriched 2:1:1 ratio)

Participants

36 trained males

Duration

8 weeks

Results

BCAA supplementation significantly increased muscle protein synthesis rate and lean mass gains vs placebo. Leucine content was primary driver via mTOR pathway.

How They Measured It

Muscle protein synthesis rate (isotope tracer), lean mass, strength

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2

To meta-analyse BCAA effects on exercise-induced muscle damage and DOMS.

2017 700 participants Various Various BCAA doses (typically 10-20g around exercise)
Review/Other Positive

Study Type

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To meta-analyse BCAA effects on exercise-induced muscle damage and DOMS.

Dose

Various BCAA doses (typically 10-20g around exercise)

Participants

Multiple RCTs (700+ combined)

Duration

Various

Results

BCAAs significantly reduce exercise-induced muscle damage markers (CK) and perceived muscle soreness (DOMS). Attenuates strength loss after eccentric exercise.

How They Measured It

CK, muscle soreness scores, maximal strength recovery across RCTs

Read full study
3

To evaluate BCAAs on muscle preservation during caloric restriction in wrestlers.

1997 25 participants 19 days BCAA 14g daily during caloric restriction
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To evaluate BCAAs on muscle preservation during caloric restriction in wrestlers.

Dose

BCAA 14g daily during caloric restriction

Participants

25 competitive wrestlers

Duration

19 days

Results

BCAAs significantly preserved lean mass and strength while reducing fat mass. Nitrogen balance maintained positive vs negative in placebo group.

How They Measured It

Lean mass retention, fat mass, nitrogen balance, training performance

Read full study

Athletic Performance

1

To investigate effects of BCAA supplementation on muscle protein synthesis and recovery following resistance exercise

2017 24 participants 8 weeks with twice-weekly resistance training 5 g BCAAs (2:1:1 ratio) post-workout
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Mixed

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Purpose

To investigate effects of BCAA supplementation on muscle protein synthesis and recovery following resistance exercise

Dose

5 g BCAAs (2:1:1 ratio) post-workout

Participants

24 trained males

Duration

8 weeks with twice-weekly resistance training

Results

BCAA supplementation enhanced post-exercise muscle protein synthesis and reduced DOMS compared to placebo

How They Measured It

Muscle protein synthesis rates, DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), strength recovery

Read full study
2

To evaluate effects of commercially available BCAA-based sports supplement on perceived exertion and performance in endurance cycling

2020 ? participants Acute supplementation with performance testing BCAA-alanine-carbohydrate supplement
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Mixed

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Purpose

To evaluate effects of commercially available BCAA-based sports supplement on perceived exertion and performance in endurance cycling

Dose

BCAA-alanine-carbohydrate supplement

Participants

Trained cyclists

Duration

Acute supplementation with performance testing

Results

BCAA-based supplement improved endurance cycling performance and reduced perceived exertion compared to placebo.

How They Measured It

Cycling performance, perceived exertion, fatigue markers

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3

To evaluate muscle damage biomarkers and soreness following BCAA supplementation with exercise-induced muscle damage

2024 ? participants Various study periods BCAA supplementation (various doses and timing)
Review/Other Positive

Study Type

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To evaluate muscle damage biomarkers and soreness following BCAA supplementation with exercise-induced muscle damage

Dose

BCAA supplementation (various doses and timing)

Participants

Meta-analysis of randomized trials

Duration

Various study periods

Results

BCAA supplementation showed a significant effect on reducing creatine kinase levels and muscle soreness biomarkers, with post-exercise timing being most effective.

How They Measured It

CK levels, muscle soreness, IL-6, CRP inflammatory markers

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Muscle Protein Synthesis

1

To compare impact of BCAAs and BCAAs vs milk protein on myofibrillar protein synthesis in older males

2019 ? participants Acute measurement post-consumption 6 g BCAA vs 6 g BCKA vs 30 g milk protein
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Mixed

Study Type

Double-blind, randomized trial

Purpose

To compare impact of BCAAs and BCAAs vs milk protein on myofibrillar protein synthesis in older males

Dose

6 g BCAA vs 6 g BCKA vs 30 g milk protein

Participants

Older adult males

Duration

Acute measurement post-consumption

Results

BCAA ingestion increased post-exercise stimulation of myofibrillar protein synthesis and mTORC1 signaling in older males.

How They Measured It

Myofibrillar protein synthesis rates, amino acid levels, mTORC1 signaling

Read full study
2

To assess whether BCAAs supplementation attenuates muscle damage and soreness after resistance exercise

2021 ? participants Various study periods BCAA (various doses)
Review/Other RCT Mixed

Study Type

Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Purpose

To assess whether BCAAs supplementation attenuates muscle damage and soreness after resistance exercise

Dose

BCAA (various doses)

Participants

Meta-analysis of trained male subjects

Duration

Various study periods

Results

Mixed evidence: some studies showed BCAA reduced soreness, but effects variable depending on training status and dose.

How They Measured It

Muscle damage markers, soreness, performance

Read full study
3

To evaluate sex-based effects of BCAA supplementation on strength training performance and body composition

2024 ? participants Training intervention period BCAA supplementation
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Purpose

To evaluate sex-based effects of BCAA supplementation on strength training performance and body composition

Dose

BCAA supplementation

Participants

Both male and female participants

Duration

Training intervention period

Results

BCAA supplementation improved muscle recovery and reduced fatigue in both sexes, with pronounced gender-specific results: women experienced greater reductions in DOMS while men achieved more significant strength gains.

How They Measured It

Muscle strength, body composition, muscle protein synthesis markers

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Liver Disease Support

1

To evaluate impact of BCAAs on muscle mass, strength, liver function in sarcopenic patients with liver cirrhosis

2021 ? participants Long-term follow-up BCAA supplementation
Human Study RCT Mixed

Study Type

Randomized clinical trial (BCAAS Study)

Purpose

To evaluate impact of BCAAs on muscle mass, strength, liver function in sarcopenic patients with liver cirrhosis

Dose

BCAA supplementation

Participants

Sarcopenic patients with liver cirrhosis

Duration

Long-term follow-up

Results

BCAA supplementation maintained or improved muscle mass, liver function, and potentially survival outcomes in cirrhotic patients.

How They Measured It

Muscle mass, liver function tests, survival markers, quality of life

Read full study
2

To evaluate the effectiveness of branched-chain amino acids for hepatic encephalopathy in people with cirrhosis

2018 16 participants Various study periods BCAA supplementation (oral and intravenous)
Review/Other Mixed

Study Type

Cochrane Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness of branched-chain amino acids for hepatic encephalopathy in people with cirrhosis

Dose

BCAA supplementation (oral and intravenous)

Participants

Meta-analysis of 16 randomized trials (827 participants)

Duration

Various study periods

Results

BCAA had a beneficial effect on hepatic encephalopathy (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.88; high quality evidence). Oral BCAA was more effective than intravenous. No difference in mortality was found.

How They Measured It

Hepatic encephalopathy incidence, mortality, liver-related events

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Sarcopenia & Muscle Mass in Elderly

1

To evaluate effects of branched-chain amino acid-rich supplementation on EWGSOP2 criteria for sarcopenia in older adults

2021 35 participants Various study periods BCAA-rich supplementation (various doses)
Review/Other Mixed

Study Type

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To evaluate effects of branched-chain amino acid-rich supplementation on EWGSOP2 criteria for sarcopenia in older adults

Dose

BCAA-rich supplementation (various doses)

Participants

Meta-analysis of 35 randomized controlled trials (elderly populations)

Duration

Various study periods

Results

BCAA-rich supplementation may have beneficial effects on muscle mass and strength in older people, though heterogeneity was high. Combined intervention with exercise was more effective.

How They Measured It

Muscle mass, muscle strength, physical performance

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2

To evaluate BCAAs combined with exercise on physical function and quality of life in older adults

2023 ? participants Multiple weeks BCAA supplementation
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Mixed

Study Type

Pilot randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Purpose

To evaluate BCAAs combined with exercise on physical function and quality of life in older adults

Dose

BCAA supplementation

Participants

Older adults

Duration

Multiple weeks

Results

BCAAs combined with exercise improved physical performance, reduced fatigue and depressive symptoms compared to exercise alone.

How They Measured It

Physical performance tests, muscle strength, fatigue, depression

Read full study

Muscle Damage & Recovery Enhancement

1

To evaluate the use of BCAAs to decrease delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after exercise-induced muscle damage

2024 ? participants Various study periods BCAA supplementation (various doses and timing)
Review/Other Positive

Study Type

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To evaluate the use of BCAAs to decrease delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after exercise-induced muscle damage

Dose

BCAA supplementation (various doses and timing)

Participants

Meta-analysis of multiple RCTs

Duration

Various study periods

Results

BCAA post-exercise supplementation significantly reduced muscle soreness scores at 24h, 48h, 72h, and 96h after resistance training. BCAA reduced inflammatory markers (IL-6, CRP) and muscle damage markers.

How They Measured It

Muscle soreness scores, muscle damage markers (CK, LDH), recovery time

Read full study
2

To evaluate timing of BCAA supplementation on muscle recovery after resistance training

2025 ? participants Multiple training sessions BCAA supplementation (pre- vs post-exercise)
Human Study RCT Mixed

Study Type

Randomized clinical trial

Purpose

To evaluate timing of BCAA supplementation on muscle recovery after resistance training

Dose

BCAA supplementation (pre- vs post-exercise)

Participants

Healthy males

Duration

Multiple training sessions

Results

Post-exercise BCAA supplementation was more effective than pre-exercise in alleviating DOMS symptoms and reducing inflammatory factors, though neuromuscular recovery was not significantly different.

How They Measured It

DOMS, inflammatory markers (IL-6, CRP), muscle damage markers, neuromuscular recovery

Read full study

Endurance Performance & Fatigue

1

To evaluate effects of BCAA supplementation on endurance exercise performance and fatigue

2016 ? participants Acute supplementation with endurance testing BCAA supplementation (combined with arginine and citrulline)
Human Study RCT Positive

Study Type

Randomized cross-over trial

Purpose

To evaluate effects of BCAA supplementation on endurance exercise performance and fatigue

Dose

BCAA supplementation (combined with arginine and citrulline)

Participants

Endurance-trained athletes

Duration

Acute supplementation with endurance testing

Results

BCAA supplementation (combined with arginine and citrulline) significantly improved 5000m and 10000m time trial performance and reduced exercise-induced fatigue in endurance runners.

How They Measured It

Time to exhaustion, exercise-induced fatigue, muscle damage biomarkers

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2

To evaluate BCAA supplementation effects on substrate metabolism and fatigue during endurance exercise

2024 ? participants Acute supplementation with exercise BCAA supplementation
Human Study Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study

Purpose

To evaluate BCAA supplementation effects on substrate metabolism and fatigue during endurance exercise

Dose

BCAA supplementation

Participants

Active young males

Duration

Acute supplementation with exercise

Results

Pre-exercise BCAA supplementation enhanced fat oxidation and carbohydrate metabolism, improved exercise efficiency, and significantly alleviated exercise-induced fatigue.

How They Measured It

Carbohydrate and fat oxidation, perceived exertion, fatigue markers

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Post-Exercise Recovery & Adaptation

1

To assess whether BCAA supplementation attenuates muscle damage and soreness after resistance exercise in trained males

2023 ? participants Various study periods BCAA (various doses)
Review/Other RCT Mixed

Study Type

Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Purpose

To assess whether BCAA supplementation attenuates muscle damage and soreness after resistance exercise in trained males

Dose

BCAA (various doses)

Participants

Meta-analysis of trained male subjects

Duration

Various study periods

Results

Mixed evidence: some studies showed BCAA reduced soreness, but effects variable depending on training status and dose. Pre-trained individuals may benefit less than untrained.

How They Measured It

Muscle damage markers, soreness perception, performance recovery

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Cancer-Related Muscle Wasting & Cachexia

1

To evaluate BCAA supplementation in patients with cancer-related cachexia and muscle wasting during treatment

2023 ? participants Various study periods BCAA supplementation (various doses)
Review/Other Mixed

Study Type

Systematic review and narrative analysis

Purpose

To evaluate BCAA supplementation in patients with cancer-related cachexia and muscle wasting during treatment

Dose

BCAA supplementation (various doses)

Participants

Cancer patients with cachexia/muscle wasting

Duration

Various study periods

Results

BCAA supplementation showed promise in cancer patients, with some studies reporting improved albumin concentrations and lean mass maintenance, though heterogeneity in outcomes was noted.

How They Measured It

Lean body mass, muscle strength, albumin levels, quality of life

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2

To evaluate the role of leucine and BCAAs in attenuating muscle wasting in cancer cachexia

2020 ? participants Various BCAA/leucine supplementation
Review/Other Mixed

Study Type

Research review

Purpose

To evaluate the role of leucine and BCAAs in attenuating muscle wasting in cancer cachexia

Dose

BCAA/leucine supplementation

Participants

Experimental and clinical studies in cachexia

Duration

Various

Results

Leucine and BCAAs may attenuate muscle wasting through mTOR pathway activation and modulation of proteasomal degradation, though survival benefits in cancer patients remain unclear.

How They Measured It

Protein synthesis, protein degradation, mTOR pathway activation

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Systematic reviews

1

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in the effect of oral pure branched-chain amino acid supplementation on exercise performance and body composition: a systematic review.

2025 511 participants Duration not specified 1.5g
Review/Other Mixed

Study Type

Systematic review

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in the effect of oral pure branched-chain amino acid supplementation on exercise performance and body composition: a systematic review.

Dose

1.5g

Participants

511 participants

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

, BCAA supplementation may reduce muscle soreness post-exercise, but evidence for improvements in strength, endurance, and body composition remains inconsistent. However, future studies should consider improving certain limitations such as implementing incremental doses, strict diets, and enrolling more participants with diverse backgrounds.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

Read full study
2

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in exploring the metabolomics profile of frailty- a systematic review.

2024 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Review/Other Mixed

Study Type

Systematic review

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in exploring the metabolomics profile of frailty- a systematic review.

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

Frailty is a multifaceted geriatric syndrome characterized by an increased vulnerability to stressful events. metabolomics studies are valuable tool for better understanding the underlying mechanisms of pathologic conditions. This review aimed to elucidate the metabolomics profile of frailty.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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3

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in serum branched amino acids and the risk of all-cause mortality: a meta-analysis and systematic review.

2023 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Review/Other Mixed

Study Type

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in serum branched amino acids and the risk of all-cause mortality: a meta-analysis and systematic review.

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

x2009;= 89.4% and P-heterogeneity < 0.001), leucine (I 2  = 87.8% and P-heterogeneity < 0.001), and valine (I 2  = 86.6% and P-heterogeneity < 0.001). Our results suggested that the serum BCAAs and its components, including isoleucine, leucine, and valine, were not associated with the risk of all-cause mortality.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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4

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in intravenous branched-chain amino acid administration for the acute treatment of hepatic encephalopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

2025 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Review/Other Mixed

Study Type

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in intravenous branched-chain amino acid administration for the acute treatment of hepatic encephalopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

and valine have been investigated as potential treatments to improve outcomes in patients with acute HE. However, the effectiveness of BCAA administration during the acute phase remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of intravenous BCAA (IV-BCAA) treatment on clinical outcomes in patients with acute HE by systematically reviewing and analyzing randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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5

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in dietary branched chain amino acids association with cancer and mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

2024 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Review/Other Positive

Study Type

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in dietary branched chain amino acids association with cancer and mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

ne : 1.01, 95% CI: 0.84-1.21) and all-cause mortality (RR BCAA : 0.98, 95% CI: 0.73-1.32, RR Leucine : 1.02, 95% CI: 0.81-1.29, RR Isoleucine : 0.96, 95% CI: 0.73-1.27, RR Valine : 1.02, 95% CI: 0.79-1.32) were observed. Our findings showed no significant association between dietary BCAAs and its components with BC and digestive cancers, BC and digestive cancers mortality, and all-cause mortality.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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6

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in branched-chain amino acid supplements for sarcopenia in liver cirrhosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

2025 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Review/Other Mixed

Study Type

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in branched-chain amino acid supplements for sarcopenia in liver cirrhosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

Sarcopenia, a key aspect of malnutrition in liver cirrhosis (LC), affects 30-70% of LC patients. Given the inconsistent results from RCTs on branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) for treating sarcopenia in LC, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of BCAAs for sarcopenia management in LC patients.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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Clinical trials

1

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in strain specific effects of probiotic supplementation on serum amino acid profiles in alzheimer's disease: a randomized, double blind, placebo controll

2025 60 participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in strain specific effects of probiotic supplementation on serum amino acid profiles in alzheimer's disease: a randomized, double blind, placebo controll

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

60 participants

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

across all primary outcome measures. Probiotic supplementation, particularly with B. longum, significantly improved serum amino acid profiles in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. These findings support the potential of specific probiotic strains to address metabolic imbalances in AD through gut-brain axis modulation. Trial Registration: IRCT number: 20210513051277N1 (2021-05-27).

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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2

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in effects of branched-chain amino acids on changes in body composition during the recovery period following tonsillectomy.

2025 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Mixed

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in effects of branched-chain amino acids on changes in body composition during the recovery period following tonsillectomy.

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

composition changes post-tonsillectomy. In oncology and digestive surgeries, the potential benefits of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) have been investigated; however, their effects on pharyngeal surgery remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the body composition changes after tonsillectomy and to explore the potential benefits of branched-chain amino acids.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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3

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in amino acid composition of plant protein-enriched wheat biscuits differentially affects postprandial amino acid responses of overweight/obese compared

2025 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Mixed

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in amino acid composition of plant protein-enriched wheat biscuits differentially affects postprandial amino acid responses of overweight/obese compared

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

s whether postprandial amino acid responses differ between normalweight (NW) and overweight/obese (OW) individuals following consumption of plant protein-enriched wheat biscuits with the same protein content but different protein composition. It highlights the importance of developing functional snack products with specific amino acid profile that could benefit individuals with overweight/obesity.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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4

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in supplementation with bacillus clausii ubbc-07 enhances circulating essential amino acids in young adults: a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial

2025 ? participants 60 days 20 g
Human Study Positive

Study Type

Clinical study

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in supplementation with bacillus clausii ubbc-07 enhances circulating essential amino acids in young adults: a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial

Dose

20 g

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

60 days

Results

A significant improvement in circulating EAA levels in the probiotic group suggests an enhancement of protein absorption with Bacillus clausii UBBC-07 supplementation. The effect of BCAAs, which enhance muscle strength, is evident in the significant improvement in leg press and a trend towards improvement in deadlift and vertical jump in the probiotic group. This has positive implication

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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5

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in post hoc analysis of a randomized placebo-controlled trial suggests potential visual benefits of branched-chain amino acids in retinitis pigmentosa.

2025 ? participants 78 weeks 98 g
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Mixed

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in post hoc analysis of a randomized placebo-controlled trial suggests potential visual benefits of branched-chain amino acids in retinitis pigmentosa.

Dose

98 g

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

78 weeks

Results

l point score (TPS) and MD in the TK-98 group. After covariate adjustment, TPS and MD reductions tended to be slower in the TK-98 group than in the placebo group. The eligibility screening visual-field test could be affected by psychological factors, such as patients' concentration or motivation, leading to better-than-usual screening test results and making them less appropriate as baseline data.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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6

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in branched-chain amino acid supplementation enhances substrate metabolism, exercise efficiency and reduces post-exercise fatigue in active young males.

2025 8 participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Mixed

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in branched-chain amino acid supplementation enhances substrate metabolism, exercise efficiency and reduces post-exercise fatigue in active young males.

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

8 participants

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

This study shows the critical role of BCAAs during exercise in active males and finds that BCAA supplementation enhanced fat oxidation during the CLE, increased carbohydrate oxidation and exercise efficiency during the TTE, and reduced immediate post-exercise fatigue.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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7

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in high leucine branched-chain amino acids supplementation ameliorates quadriceps femoris muscle thickness reduction and attenuates interleukin-6 in crit

2026 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Positive

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in high leucine branched-chain amino acids supplementation ameliorates quadriceps femoris muscle thickness reduction and attenuates interleukin-6 in crit

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

ring the quadriceps femoris muscle thickness (QFMT). One significant contributing factor is inflammation, with interleukin-6 (IL-6) as one of the important markers. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), especially leucine, enhance muscle protein synthesis, and reduce inflammation. This study examined the effects of high leucine BCAA supplementation on QFMT and IL-6 levels in critically ill patients.

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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8

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in prospective randomized, placebo-controlled study: role of branched-chain amino acids infusion as adjunct therapy post-liver surgery for patients in th

2025 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Mixed

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in prospective randomized, placebo-controlled study: role of branched-chain amino acids infusion as adjunct therapy post-liver surgery for patients in th

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

Several animal studies have shown that Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) may prevent acute liver injury, although its effects in humans are as yet undetermined. Thus the purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of intravenous BCAAs infusion on liver profile post-liver surgery in the intensive care unit (ICU).

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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9

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in consumption of a branched-chain amino acids-containing sports beverage during 21 km of running reduces dehydration, lowers muscle damage, and prevents

2024 ? participants Duration not specified BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)
Human Study RCT Double-Blind Placebo Mixed

Study Type

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled

Purpose

To investigate the effects of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) in consumption of a branched-chain amino acids-containing sports beverage during 21 km of running reduces dehydration, lowers muscle damage, and prevents

Dose

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (dose not specified)

Participants

Participants not specified

Duration

Duration not specified

Results

The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)-containing electrolyte beverage (AE) on water-electrolyte balance, muscle damage, time to finish the final 5 km, and muscle strength compared to a standard commercially available carbohydrate-electrolyte sports beverage (CE), pure water (W), and no rehydration (N).

How They Measured It

See study for outcome measures

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) research

What does the research say about BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)?

There are currently 35 peer-reviewed studies on BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) (L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine), involving 1,415 total participants. Research covers Muscle Building & Recovery, Athletic Performance, Muscle Protein Synthesis and 8 more areas. The overall evidence strength is rated as Strong.

How strong is the evidence for BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)?

The evidence is currently rated as "Strong Evidence". This rating is based on study design quality (randomisation, blinding, placebo controls), sample sizes, study types (20 human studies), and reported outcomes.

What health goals has BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) been studied for?

BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) has been researched for: Muscle Building & Recovery, Athletic Performance, Muscle Protein Synthesis, Liver Disease Support, Sarcopenia & Muscle Mass in Elderly, Muscle Damage & Recovery Enhancement, Endurance Performance & Fatigue, Post-Exercise Recovery & Adaptation, Cancer-Related Muscle Wasting & Cachexia, Systematic reviews, Clinical trials. Each area has its own body of evidence which you can explore in the study breakdowns above.

Are the studies on BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) based on human trials?

Yes, 20 out of 35 studies are human trials. Human trials carry more weight in our evidence scoring system.