The best BCAAs: TOP-12 high-quality and effective in 2022

Now one of the most popular products on the sports nutrition market is BCAAs.
It is a complex of essential branched chain amino acids that helps increase muscle mass, develop strength and endurance, burn fat and gain energy. And this is not a complete list of goals that can be achieved by taking BCAAs. Today in our article we will talk in detail about the specifics and features of such a sports supplement, we will talk about the scheme of its intake and the criteria for choosing products. In conclusion, TehCovet.Ru experts have compiled a rating of the best BCAAs so that you can choose and purchase high-quality and effective sports nutrition. SURVEY: In your opinion, sports nutrition is

What is BCAA and what is it for?

For normal functioning of the body and active muscle growth, it is necessary to add proteins to your diet. Protein is synthesized from 22 amino acids, but only 13 of them are produced in the body independently. The remaining 9 are found in food, 3 of which are BCAAs. They are called leucine, valine and isoleucine.

BCAA is the main building material for muscles, so it accounts for 25% of the total amino acids. Moreover, leucine is the “main builder”.

Another feature of this complex is that it does not break down in the liver, as it goes directly to the muscle fibers. The remaining two amino acids help reduce nighttime catabolism by regulating insulin levels in the blood.

BCAAs are also an additional source of energy and a stimulator of muscle metabolism. During training, this is simply an ideal option. Amino acids increase endurance, provide an influx of strength and focus the athlete’s attention only on exercise. This is because leucine, isoleucine and valine reduce the level of serotonin in brain cells, which causes fatigue and drowsiness.

It should also be noted that you can get the maximum benefit from BCAAs if you have enough protein in your daily diet.

Maxler BCAA Powder (Rating: 4.5 out of 5)

Maxler BCAA Powder makes our top list for its ability to stimulate anabolism (muscle growth) and prevent catabolism (muscle breakdown) caused by intense training.
The American brand Maxler is not particularly popular, but it has a fairly high level of products. Often, professional athletes prefer BCAA of this brand. The effect of this drug is noticeable much faster than when using other products. This happens due to the fact that with the usual proportion of amino acids, the developers add vitamin B6 and citrulline malate to the capsules. The drug provides good support for muscle tissue and the immune system, increases endurance during physical activity.

Advantages:

• accelerated regeneration and active growth of muscle tissue;
• increase in protein synthesis.

Flaws:

• overpriced product.

Types and forms of release

BCAAs can be divided into types according to the ratio of amino acids in the complex. The following ratios are presented on the market:

• BCAA 2:1:1;
• BCAA 4:1:1;
• BCAA 8:1:1;
• BCAA 10:1:1.

They determine the concentration of leucine to two other amino acids - valine and isoleucine. Many novice athletes mistakenly think that the more leucine, the stronger the anabolic effect. In fact, this is not true. The 2:1:1 ratio is recognized as the most balanced and optimal. Therefore, we recommend choosing exactly such products.

Next, let's talk about release forms - there are four in total.

1. Powder . The most budget and popular form. Mixes with regular drinking water in the required proportion specified by the manufacturer. Sometimes powder forms have an unpleasant bitterness or an overly sour taste. But these are more features of the recipe and the raw materials used, rather than an indicator of low quality. Now in the assortment you can find BCAAs with various additives - berries or fruits, they are much more pleasant. You can choose an alternative intake of such BCAAs to reduce unpleasant taste sensations - eat a spoonful of dry powder and drink plenty of water.
2. Capsules . A little more expensive than powder, but much more convenient. You can always carry them with you and take them as needed. The taste is completely neutral, bitterness and acid are not felt at all. This supplement doesn't last long. In this regard, powder consumption is more economical.
3. Tablets or gummies . This is a compressed powder that is similar in quality and taste to capsules. But there is one drawback - they take a little longer to be absorbed by the body. The cost is less than that of capsules.
4. Liquid . Already prepared concentrated cocktail. It is also convenient to take with you; there is no need to mix or dissolve anything. It is absorbed faster than the powder - the active substances begin to act within 5 minutes after administration. It is in less demand due to its relatively high price.

USPlabs Modern BCAA (Rating: 4.7 out of 5)

The USPlabs brand offers an improved BCAA formula that contains 15 grams of amino acids—an increase of 5 grams over the original formula, which contained 10 grams of amino acids per serving.
The high-quality powder supplement features a balanced 8:1:1 leucine/isolucine/valine ratio that contains four times more leucine than similar supplements. Plus, it's low in sugar and artificial flavors. The composition is also additionally enriched with taurine, alanine and all types of excipients aimed at increasing muscle protection against catabolism. Due to the 8:1:1 ratio, the need for an increased dosage disappears, since the drug already contains a universal formula and contains the necessary ingredients in quantities sufficient for sufficient protein synthesis.

Advantages:

• good dissolution;
• full range of tastes;
• universal composition.

Flaws:

• high price for 30 single servings per package.

How to take BCAAs correctly?

The average serving size of BCAAs per day is 10 grams. This will be quite enough for beginner athletes. If desired, the portion can be divided into two doses - morning and evening. The approximate duration of the course is from 3 to 4 weeks.

But for professional athletes, the portion needs to be increased. About 20 grams are required per day, which are also divided into two doses. The course can last about 2 weeks.

Also, the regimen for taking BCAAs can be adjusted depending on the availability of training on a particular day. Since intense muscle work during exercise requires a large amount of energy, it can be replenished with the help of an amino acid cocktail. The drug is taken before training and immediately after.

On rest days, BCAAs no longer act as a source of energy and additional muscle nutrition, but as an “elixir” against catabolic processes. Due to the fact that catabolism actively manifests itself during sleep and after waking up, amino acids should be taken in the morning after breakfast and in the evening after dinner. A third of the standard dose will help maintain the results achieved during training and restore the body after exercise.

Also, do not forget about the recommendations given by the manufacturer. Depending on the form of release, the ratio of amino acids, the presence of auxiliary components, composition and recipe, the serving quantity may vary slightly up or down.

Weight Loss Supplements

You must understand that BCAA affect weight loss very indirectly. If you are looking for a more specialized fat burning product, then look no further than Fat Burner. These supplements help speed up your metabolism, control your appetite, and give you energy while on a low-carb diet.

The best fat burners

RED Labs Oxy Red

Price: 2368.00 rub.

Card Product

Skyline Nutrition Miami Lean (60 capsules)

Price: 3456.00 rub.

Card Product

Condemned Laboratoriez Arsyn

Price: 3072.00 rub. 2670.00 rub.

Card Product

Go to the Fat Burners and Diuretics category »

But the use of fat burners is particularly stressful for the body and requires not only knowledge in this area, but also taking sports supplements that will support your immunity, muscles and the body as a whole. These include:

• Protein;
• Amino acids;
• Vitamin complexes;
• Healthy fats.

To increase the effectiveness of taking supplements, we advise you to learn how to take sports nutrition correctly.

The best proteins

Blackstone Labs Isolation

Price: 3968.00 rub.

Card Product

Condemned Labz Commissary Whey Protein

Price: 3584.00 rub.

Card Product

Go to the Protein category »

The best amino acids

Nutra Bio 100% Pure L-Glutamic Acid

Price: 2176.00 rub. 1930.00 rub.

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Finaflex EAA Hardcore

Price: 2816.00 rub.

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Finaflex Pure Glutamine

Price: 2560.00 rub.

Card Product

Go to the Amino Acids category »

The best vitamins

Blackstone Labs Multi

Price: 2304.00 rub.

Card Product

Blackstone Labs Juiced Up

Price: 2816.00 rub.

Card Product

Revange Nutrition ZMA+ Rx

Price: 2048.00 rub.

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Go to the category Vitamin and mineral complexes »

Benefits and harms

The branched chain amino acid complex BCAA has many positive properties that are scientifically proven. But there are also side effects and contraindications that you should definitely know about before starting the course. For the convenience of readers, TechSovet experts have compiled a table:

BCAA also has a number of contraindications, in which it is recommended to refrain from taking the supplement:

• diseases of the liver, kidneys, heart and blood vessels;
• diabetes;
• increased level of acidity in the body;
• ulcer and gastritis;
• pathology of the pancreas.

Even if you do not have such serious diseases, you still need to monitor the correct intake and proportionality of the dosage. This will avoid possible side effects and negative reactions. After all, you need to remember that the harm that BCAAs cause is the result of an overdose and taking the supplement on an empty stomach.

Do BCAA's make you fat?

Finally, we need to address the myth that BCAA's can make you fat. As you know, the body gains excess fat only during a calorie surplus, which is achieved through excessive consumption of fats and carbohydrates, preferably fast ones. That is why there are several reasons that prove the absurdity of such a myth:

• The BCAA supplement does not contain fats or carbohydrates;
• Leucine, which is the basis of any complex, on the contrary, promotes weight loss;
• BCAA accelerate the breakdown of subcutaneous fat, reducing its amount in the body;
• Until now, there has not been a single case recorded in the world of anyone gaining excess fat from BCAA.

Find out everything about which sports nutrition to choose for weight loss for a girl!

Selection criteria: how to choose the right BCAAs?

1. Release form. As mentioned above, there are four types of BCAAs - tablets, powder, capsules and liquid. They have different concentrations of amino acids and absorption rates. Powder and liquid are absorbed most quickly, while capsules take longer due to the gelatin shell. Moreover, the quality and effectiveness of the additive does not depend on the form of release.
2. Dosage. According to this criterion, powder is considered the best. It has the highest dosage of amino acids per serving. For capsules and tablets it is slightly lower, but at the same time they are more convenient to take and can be taken with you everywhere.
3. Organoleptics. BCAAs in powder have a significant drawback - they have a rather unpleasant sour-bitter taste. The cocktail is drunk almost “by force.” But if you choose products with flavors and sweeteners, this effect can be avoided. Solubility also plays a significant role. If the amino acids have not undergone the necessary processing, then the cocktail may turn out to be of poor quality, with lumps. To prevent this, we recommend choosing products with a fine grinding degree.
4. Additional components. The presence of excipients in BCAAs can be a significant advantage when choosing a sports nutrition. They improve the absorption of basic amino acids and increase the effectiveness of training. Manufacturers may add glutamine, lactulose, beta-alanine, citrulline, peptides, minerals and vitamins.
5. Price. An amino acid complex with flavoring additives is more expensive, but it is much more pleasant to drink, so it makes sense to pay more. The most accessible and common form of release is powder, and the most expensive is capsules. In terms of price-quality ratio, liquid is the best option. It is used sparingly and contains a large number of excipients.

TOP 7 best BCAA manufacturersbest manufacturers

(add links to brand pages)

Choosing the best BCAA supplements is difficult because there are many options on the market for these supplements. Manufacturers also have their own ratings.

1. Maxler

   (USA and Germany). A worthy and popular brand among professional athletes that produces high-quality products in the mid-price segment. The wide product line includes Maxler BCAA Powder (powder with a neutral taste or flavor), capsules and tablet forms with different amino acid contents.

2. Optimum Nutrition

   (USA). A popular sports nutrition company that has been producing high-quality premium products in a wide range for many years. Products such as serious mass and whey gold standard have long become world legends. BCAA Optimum is an excellent choice in terms of price and quality.

3. BioTech

   (USA). Responsible manufacturer of various types of additives since 1999. The BioTech brand produces high-quality drugs that allow you to lose weight or build muscles and increase their performance.

4. Ultimate Nutrition

   (USA). One of the oldest American manufacturers of sports nutrition, on the market in 1979. The well-known brand is distinguished by a wide product line, stable quality and innovative developments.

5. R.P.S.

   (Russian Performance Standard) Nutrition. A young international Russian-American brand, operating on the market since 2014, offering highly digestible products with high-quality ingredients, a balanced composition, pleasant taste and a wide range.

6. King Protein

   (Russia). A well-established brand that produces various dietary supplements, including tablets and powdered amino acids. Innovative BCAA packaging from King Protein preserves the beneficial components of the drugs for a long time.

7. CyberMass

   (Russia). The company was founded in 2015, has its own laboratories, where it develops unique, safe and effective sports nutrition supplements. Cybermass purchases ingredients for BCAA in Europe, using only natural raw materials, which undergo further processing on modern equipment in compliance with international norms and standards.

Summary table of rating nominees

Rating of the best BCAA

The best BCAA powder: TOP 5 brands

“Ultimate Nutrition” BCAA 12000 Flavored - premium quality

The amino acid complex from this American manufacturer helps maintain, strengthen and build muscles during training and rest. Additionally, the supplement protects against catabolism and increases strength and endurance. This BCAA complex also saturates the body with energy and satisfies hunger.

By itself, BCAA 12000 Flavored is an excellent source of essential amino acids - leucine, isoleucine and valine. One serving contains 7.6 grams of dry powder, of which 6 are pure protein. The rest is corn kernel powder, sweetener and food flavoring.

The cocktail is prepared using water. One dose requires 200 to 300 ml of liquid. It is better to drink after the main meals - breakfast and dinner. If you are planning a workout, you can consume the entire portion once immediately after it.

Advantages and disadvantages

• huge range of flavors
• average price
• dissolves well
• wide spectrum of action
• easy to digest

• some flavors (watermelon and lime) are very chemical

“Maxler” BCAA Lean - formula with fiber

The recipe for this BCAA powder can be called unique. Among our entire rating, this is the only product that contains fiber. Fiber is a natural dietary fiber that promotes proper absorption of foods and satiation of the body.

The amino acids leucine, isoleucine and valine are added in a ratio of 2:1:1. This formula allows you to quickly return the body to shape after an intense workout, restore strength and reduce the feeling of fatigue. BCAA builds beautiful, voluminous and sculpted muscles. Additionally, the complex helps fight excess weight by accelerating metabolic processes.

The cocktail is prepared on the basis of one scoop of powder (5 grams) and 250 ml of liquid - water or juice. If necessary, the supplement can be taken twice a day - before and after training. Customers will also be pleased with the range of flavors. They are presented in quite unusual combinations: “cucumber-mint”, “strawberry-kiwi”, “ginger-lime” and “pineapple-coconut”.

Advantages and disadvantages

• high quality
• average price
• wide range of flavors
• invigorates the body and gives strength
• contains fiber

• some flavors are too sweet

“Be First” BCAA 2:1:1 Classic Powder is a popular product

The classic ratio of leucine, isoleucine and valine is optimal for protein synthesis and muscle growth. Moreover, this product is distinguished by its relatively budget price, effectiveness and wide range of flavors - which is why it is in such demand among buyers.

The assortment includes the following flavors: pineapple, cherry, lime, orange, berries, figs, pomegranate and others. They are all a little sweet and, in principle, pleasant to eat. But the classic neutral taste has a slight bitterness, which may not be to everyone’s taste, but it does not contain dyes, sweeteners or flavors. Only pure amino acids.

You need to take one or two servings per day. Each of them is mixed in 150-250 ml of liquid. If you are planning a workout, it is recommended to drink BCAAs half an hour before and 10 minutes after.

Advantages and disadvantages

• high quality
• average price
• assortment of flavors
• efficiency
• good composition

• does not dissolve very well in water

“Optimum Nutrition” BCAA 5000 Powder - an effective supplement

The American manufacturer “Optimum Nutrition” is famous for the impeccable quality of its products, but this comes with a corresponding price, which not everyone will like. Especially when there are a huge number of budget analogues on the market.

However, this BCAA is one of the best and most effective. One serving provides as many as five grams of essential amino acids in the L-form. They actively nourish muscle tissue during and after exercise, promote muscle growth and prevent catabolism.

Thanks to BCAA 5000 Powder, an athlete can establish optimal amino acid metabolism in his body. The composition is free of lactose, gluten and aspartame, which is also an undoubted advantage.

Should be taken after the main meal or half an hour before the planned workout. If you wish, you can have a cocktail after class.

Advantages and disadvantages

• premium quality
• efficiency
• selected raw materials
• does not contain lactose and gluten
• proven manufacturer

• high price
• small selection of flavors

Allmax BCAA (Rating: 4.6 out of 5)

The Canadian manufacturer Allmax offers a pharmaceutically produced amino acid complex from high quality Japanese raw materials.
This brand of BCAA contains 8 grams of pure amino acids per spoon, which will significantly increase the athlete’s energy during a grueling workout. In addition, the product successfully combats muscle fatigue and catabolism. Allmax BCAA is a universal supplement that can be used during any training period, either when gaining muscle mass or when getting rid of body fat. The composition effectively affects the restoration and gain of muscle mass, as well as increasing strength indicators.

The product contains no allergens, no gluten and no GMOs. This complex can be used by all athletes, regardless of the type of sport.

For maximum results, it is recommended to use 5 g of the drug with water or juice 10-15 minutes before training. The supplement is available in sizes 105 g, 462 g and 1166 g in 5 types of flavors or without flavoring additives.

Advantages:

• high quality pharmaceutical grade products;
• good mixing with liquid.

Flaws:

• high price.

Order in the online store

The best BCAA capsules in 2021

“R-Line” BCAA Caps - good price

The convenient capsule form allows you to take the supplement anywhere and anytime. This product is convenient to take with you to training, on the road and travel. The manufacturer chose the classic amino acid ratio formula - 2:1:1. This is the optimal proportion to enhance the anabolic process in the body.

For one full serving you will need to drink 5 capsules. They dissolve very quickly in the body and are well absorbed. On training days, you should drink one serving 30 minutes before training and the second immediately after. During rest periods, just one serving, divided between main meals, will be enough.

There is only one taste - neutral. But thanks to the capsule form of release, you will not feel bitterness or other unpleasant taste while taking it.

Advantages and disadvantages

• acceptable price
• ease of use
• efficiency
• there is no unpleasant taste
• relieves post-workout pain

• quickly consumed

“Scitec Nutrition” BCAA-X - customer choice

BCAA-X is an absolutely pure amino acid complex consisting of leucine, isoleucine and valine. The ratio of components is selected in the proportion 2:1:1. The composition does not contain fats, carbohydrates and other foreign substances.

If desired, the athlete can combine this supplement with any other types of sports nutrition, add it to any training program and diet, including those focused on weight loss.

One jar contains 120 capsules, of which only two are needed for one serving. Thus, the product will be enough for you for as many as 60 single doses, which is very economical. There is only one taste - classic, which is typical for BCAA in capsule form.

You should take from 4 to 16 capsules per day. For enhanced effects, it is recommended to take 4 capsules before training and the same amount after. On rest days you can take it at absolutely any time.

Advantages and disadvantages

• high quality
• ease of use
• economical consumption
• acceptable price
• there is no unpleasant taste
• efficiency

• the composition is not enriched with vitamins and other excipients

“VPLAB” BCAA Ultra Pure - complex product

A beautiful, healthy and athletic body is a clear result of the action of this BCAA. The amino acid complex of which it consists maintains shape, maintains firmness and elasticity of muscle fibers, increasing their volume and maintaining relief during drying.

BCAA Ultra Pure is based on only high quality purified leucine, isoleucine and valine. They fill the body with energy, increase endurance and strength. There is also an anti-catabolic effect.

There are 4000 mg of BCAA per serving. Since the composition does not contain lactose and gluten, the product is suitable for vegetarians and people with individual intolerance to these components.

One jar contains 120 capsules, of which only 4 are needed for one full dose. Should be taken 20-30 minutes before and after training.

Advantages and disadvantages

• pure amino acids included
• efficiency
• promotes muscle recovery
• acceptable price
• high quality

• The capsules are large, taking them is quite uncomfortable

Why are BCAA needed and why has supplementation become mandatory?

BCAA is a complex product that includes three amino acids:

• Leucine;
• Isoleucine;
• Valin.

They are classified as essential, which means they should come only from food. BCAA are the best amino acids found in protein when it comes to muscle growth and strength gains. Muscles consist of approximately 30-35% BCA amino acids, which also explains their importance, not only in sports, but in any physical activity in general. Today, BCAA occupy a leading position in the rankings of all amino acids and are considered a mandatory supplement, along with protein mixtures.

Main effects:

• Prevents the destruction of muscle fibers by reducing catabolic processes in tissues;
• Accelerates the growth of pure muscles;
• Increase recovery abilities;
• Increase endurance, increase energy levels;
• Helps stimulate fat burning processes;
• They are effectively combined with other sports supplements and can even enhance their effect.

The best BCAA tablets for 2021

“BioTechUSA” BCAA+B6 - working additive

In addition to the standard BCAA complex of leucine, isoleucine and valine, this product includes vitamin B6. Thanks to it, protein metabolism and glycogen production are normalized in the body, and natural metabolism in general is accelerated. The vitamin prevents the development of feelings of tiredness and fatigue.

The product does not contain glycogen, so it can be taken by vegetarians. Also free of sucralose, maltodextrin and aspartame. All other components included in the composition are high quality and made from selected raw materials.

You should take four tablets per day. They should be divided into two doses - 30 minutes before training and immediately after. During the rest period, only after main meals. The recommended dose should not be exceeded to avoid causing side effects.

Advantages and disadvantages

• high quality
• presence of vitamin in the composition
• efficiency
• acceptable price
• proven manufacturer
• reduces post-workout pain

• quickly consumed

“Be First” BCAA Tablets - good quality product

In addition to BCAA powder, the manufacturer “Be First” also has another form of supplement release - tablets. Taking BCAA Tablets promotes the production of protein in the body, increases strength endurance, preserves muscles when losing weight, helps get rid of excess fat, accelerates the growth of muscle fibers, reduces pain after training and restores overall tone.

The standard dosage for the average athlete is 5 grams. This dose covers the body’s daily requirement for amino acids.

Should be taken before and after training to reduce the negative effects of catabolism. On non-training days, do not neglect taking BCAAs. During this period, amino acids eliminate microtraumas of fibers and build muscles.

Advantages and disadvantages

• convenient packaging
• acceptable price
• helps the body recover
• efficiency
• good quality

• The tablets are large and can be quite uncomfortable to take.

How does BCAA help during training?

Amino acid training becomes more effective because it provides a number of additional benefits:

• increase performance on a physical and intellectual level,
• increase endurance, giving muscles additional energy,
• maintain constant blood glucose levels,
• reduce the intensity of catabolic muscle destruction, reducing pain after a hard workout,
• help you recover faster and return to training.

Thus, BCAA amino acids help increase the growth of lean muscle mass, overcoming the training “plateau” - the body’s adaptation to the stress of physical activity. When training for weight loss, BCAA helps maintain muscle mass, since the calorie deficit combines with training loads and increases catabolism, resulting in the loss of not only excess fat, but also part of the muscle. The protection of muscle fibers is ensured by taking bca.

The best liquid BCAA

“2SN” BCAA Concentrate - ready-made amino acid cocktail

This liquid complex from the “2SN” brand is an effective means for building lean muscles and quickly recovering after an intense workout. The ratio of amino acids in it is maintained in the proportion 2:1:1. The advantage of the liquid BCAA formula is that it is absorbed by the body much faster.

Additionally, the composition includes vitamin B6, which has a positive effect on the nervous system and improves the athlete’s immunity.

The undoubted advantages of this BCAA complex include the fact that it fights fatigue, maintains muscle shape and restores amino acid balance in the body.

One serving contains 40 ml of liquid, which is diluted in a glass of water. You need to drink half an hour to an hour before your planned workout and another serving immediately after the workout.

Advantages and disadvantages

• ease of reception
• contains vitamins
• efficiency
• good quality
• reasonable price for this category of goods
• There is an assortment of flavors - grapefruit and strawberry

• rarely found on open sale
• contains preservatives

BioTech Liquid BCAA (Rating: 4.4 out of 5)

Biotech Liquid BCAA is a sports supplement based on bioavailable BCAA in a 2:1:1 ratio to provide an additional supply of essential amino acids and support normal muscle function, accelerate recovery and develop developed muscles.
A serving of Biotech's Liquid BCAA contains approximately 4 g of amino acids and other nutrients that are included to enhance effectiveness. The supplement contains arginine, lysine and ornithine, which are other essential amino acids that are involved in muscle development and make workouts more effective. In addition, Biotech Liquid BCAA has added vitamins B6 and B12 as they interact with protein synthesis, help maintain insulin levels, and reduce muscle fatigue during exercise. The concentration for a supplement at an affordable price is quite intense, so the effectiveness is undeniable. However, once you start drinking this drug, you must follow the dosage schedule in order to receive amino acids and other necessary substances on time. Advantages:

• high concentration of substances;
• ease of use

Flaws:

• overcharge

So, BCAAs are a complex of three amino acids that are very popular among representatives of strength sports. Before purchasing a supplement, it is necessary to analyze its composition and the effect of specific products on the body, and also take into account the manufacturer’s brand.