Contents
- 8 Best Amino Acid Supplements
- What Is Amino Acid?
- How Does Amino Acid Work?
- Potential Side Effects Of Amino Acid Supplements
- How To Select The Best Amino Acid Supplements?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Amino acids are known as the optimal building blocks of protein and may help with muscle repair, immune system function, and keeping your cells healthy. When you eat protein-rich foods, your body breaks them down into amino acids, which it then utilized for various functions.
Taking amino acid supplements can give your body additional amino acids, especially if your diet isn’t providing enough. You might want to include them in your routine if you’re an athlete or bodybuilder looking to reduce muscle soreness and boost endurance.
If you follow a vegan diet, these supplements may help ensure you get all the amino acids your body needs. However, if you already consume a protein-rich diet, supplementing with amino acids may not provide much added benefit.
This article discusses the 8 best amino acid supplements, highlighting their pros and cons, how they work, and the benefits they offer. We have also mentioned their potential side effects and tips that may help you choose the best formula based on your goals and needs.
8 Best Amino Acid Supplements
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Naked Nutrition EAAs
Naked Nutrition EAAs is a fast-absorbing blend of essential amino acids that claims to support muscle development and boost post-workout recovery.
Made in the USA, Naked Nutrition EAAs is a GMO-free, soy-free formula that contains BCAAs in a 2:1:1 ratio, which includes L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-Valine. This leucine-enhanced formula may help enhance your endurance, strength, and recovery, helping you power through intense workouts and recover quickly to stay consistent with your training.
As per the official website, to consume Naked EAAs, mix it with your favorite sports drink or juice for an easy pre- or post-workout drink. For even better results, you can pair it with Naked Creatine to improve your workout performance and build lean muscle.
Pros & Cons of Naked Nutrition EAAs
Pros
- It could support muscle recovery and endurance.
- Optimized for muscle protein synthesis, strength, and faster recovery.
- Free from artificial ingredients, ensuring a clean and pure supplement.
- GMO-free and soy-free, which makes it suitable for various dietary restrictions.
- It can be added to sports drinks or juice for easy consumption.
- It may help speed up your recovery after intense workouts.
Cons
- It may have a strong taste when mixed with plain water.
- You may find it costlier.
- Doesn’t come in convenient pill or capsule form, making it less portable.
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BodyHealth Perfect Amino Tablets
BodyHealth Perfect Amino Tablets claims to provide your body with essential amino acids in a highly absorbable form, with up to 99% being used for muscle repair and protein synthesis. It may help you build lean muscle, improve recovery, or maintain strength while fasting or on a calorie-controlled diet.
Perfect Amino Tablets by BodyHealth includes nucleic acid building blocks, which could help guide protein synthesis at the genetic level. This means your body can more efficiently use these amino acids to build muscle, repair tissues, and support overall cellular function.
According to the official website, BodyHealth Perfect Amino Tablets may also contribute to better immune health, as nucleic acids are essential for DNA and RNA formation, which play a role in cell regeneration and energy production.
Pros & Cons of BodyHealth Perfect Amino Tablets
Pros
- Up to 99% of amino acids are utilized for muscle repair and protein synthesis.
- It could support muscle growth and recovery
- It provides essential amino acids without adding calories.
- It may enhance protein synthesis.
- It could also help in cell regeneration.
- Vegan-friendly and allergen-free.
- NSF Certified for Sport, which ensures purity and safety.
- Manufactured in a cGMP-certified facility.
Cons
- Since it’s in tablet form, it doesn’t offer flavored varieties.
- Muscle-building and recovery benefits may take consistent use to become noticeable.
- You could experience bloating during the initial use.
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Transparent Labs BCAA
According to the official website, Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine may help your muscles recover faster, reduce soreness, and keep you hydrated so you can train harder.
Each serving (20.17 g) of BCAA Glutamine from Transparent Labs gives you 8,000 mg of plant-based BCAAs in the ratio 2:1:1, which may help your body build muscle, prevent muscle breakdown, and improve endurance. It also contains 5,000 mg of L-glutamine that could support muscle recovery, reduce fatigue, and promote gut health.
The makers also added 1,500 mg of vitamin C in Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine, which may help strengthen your immune system, while 1,000 mg of coconut water powder could help replace lost electrolytes and keep you hydrated during intense workouts. It is made without animal products, added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or food dyes, so you get a clean and high-quality formula.
To consume Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine, you need to mix one scoop with cold water and drink it before, during, or after your workout to support muscle recovery and performance. If needed, you can take an extra serving or two throughout the day, but don’t exceed three servings daily.
Pros & Cons of Transparent Labs BCAA
Pros
- Vegan-friendly with plant-based BCAAs.
- No artificial additives like sugars, sweeteners, or dyes.
- Includes 1,000 mg of coconut water powder for hydration.
- 5,000 mg of L-glutamine for muscle recovery.
- Vitamin C for immune support.
- Third-party tested for purity and potency.
- Available in four flavors.
- Supports muscle recovery and reduces soreness.
- Free of animal products, suitable for plant-based diets.
Cons
- It can be more expensive than other BCAA supplements.
- Limited servings per container for daily users.
- You may find the taste too strong or sweet.
- Contains coconut water powder, which may not suit you if you are coconut-sensitive.
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Horbäach Amino Acid Complex
Horbäach Amino Acid Complex claims to provide 2,000 mg of L-Arginine and 1,000 mg of L-Citrulline per serving, two amino acids that may support better workout performance and faster recovery.
L-Arginine in Horbäach Amino Acid Complex could help your body produce nitric oxide, which may help relax and widen your blood vessels, leading to improved blood circulation and better delivery of oxygen to your muscles during exercise.
The makers added l-citrulline in this Amino Acid Complex, which may reduce muscle soreness and boost endurance, helping you stay consistent in your workouts. It is also free from gluten, soy, wheat, milk, and lactose.
Pros & Cons of Horbäach Amino Acid Complex
Pros
- Contains 3,000 mg of L-Arginine and L-Citrulline per serving.
- Supports improved blood flow and circulation.
- It may help decrease muscle soreness and improve endurance.
- Free from gluten, wheat, soy, milk, and lactose.
- No artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.
- Non-GMO and natural formula.
- Suitable for various dietary preferences and restrictions.
- It could help with faster muscle recovery after intense workouts.
Cons
- No additional vitamins or minerals were added to the formula.
- Comes in capsules, which may be inconvenient if you have trouble swallowing capsules.
- You might experience stomach discomfort if taken on an empty stomach.
- Only available on its official website for purchase.
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RULE ONE Essential Amino 9
As per the manufacturer, RULE ONE Essential Amino 9 could support your muscle recovery and hydration needs. It’s each serving provides you with 7.5g of essential amino acids (EAAs), including 5g of BCAAs, and 500mg of electrolytes. These amino acids may enhance muscle repair and growth, helping your muscles recover faster after a workout. The electrolytes could help replenish what you lose through sweat so you stay hydrated and energized.
The makers state that taking RULE ONE Essential Amino 9 after your workout may reduce muscle soreness, enhance recovery, and even support muscle protein synthesis so that you can get stronger with each training session. It may also help ensure you’re properly hydrated, which is crucial for performance and reducing fatigue.
RULE ONE Essential Amino 9 is Informed Choice® Certified, which means it is regularly tested for banned substances, ensuring optimal safety. It doesn’t contain any stimulants or added sugars, making it easy on your body and suitable for any time of day.
Pros & Cons of RULE ONE Essential Amino 9
Pros
- Provides 7.5g of EAA in each serving for muscle recovery and growth.
- Contains 5g of BCAAs, crucial for reducing muscle soreness and promoting protein synthesis.
- Includes 500mg of electrolytes for hydration support.
- Informed Choice® Certified, ensuring it is regularly tested for banned substances.
- Refreshing flavors that make it enjoyable to drink.
- It can be used before, during, or after workouts for optimal recovery and hydration.
- Supports muscle repair and reduces fatigue.
Cons
- Powder form may be inconvenient if you prefer capsules or pills.
- Mixing with water may be difficult if you’re on the go or don’t have access to water.
- Electrolyte content may not be enough if you’re looking for more intense hydration.
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Bulk Supplements EAA Powder
According to the manufacturer, Bulk Supplements EAA Powder delivers 10 grams of essential amino acids in each serving (4tsp), helping you maintain energy and improve performance throughout your workout. It could also help promote fast muscle growth and recovery, making it a suitable addition to your post-workout routine.
Regular use of EAA Powder from Bulk Supplements may support your metabolism and assist in weight management by enhancing calorie burn both during physical activity and while at rest. It could also help curb your cravings and manage your appetite, making it easier to stay on track with your goals.
The digestive-friendly components in Bulk Supplements EAA Powder might improve your gut health, ensuring that nutrients are absorbed efficiently for maximum benefit. The makers mention that you can mix Bulk Supplements EAA Powder into protein shakes and smoothies or use it as a pre-or post-workout drink to enhance muscle recovery and growth.
Pros & Cons of Bulk Supplements EAA Powder
Pros
- You provide 10 grams of essential amino acids per serving.
- It may support metabolism and help with weight management.
- The formula could help curb your cravings and manage your appetite.
- It may improve your gut health, ensuring your body absorbs nutrients more effectively.
- You can mix it with water or milk or add it to your favorite smoothies.
Cons
- The taste might not be as appealing to you, depending on your preference.
- You need to mix it with liquid, which can be a hassle if you’re in a rush.
- It is only accessible through its official website.
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Pure Encapsulations Essential Amino Acids
Pure Encapsulations Essential Amino Acids promise to support your muscles, brain, and tissues. It may also help support muscle recovery and growth, helping to repair and maintain healthy cells and tissues.
Essential Amino Acids from Pure Encapsulations might aid muscle protein synthesis, which could help your muscles recover and become stronger after workouts. It may provide amino acid ratios based on high-quality protein sources, which could promote muscle health and tissue repair.
Pure Encapsulations Essential Amino Acids is claimed to be free from common allergens like wheat, soy, dairy, eggs, and tree nuts, making it safe for you if you have sensitivities. Each amino acid in the formula is derived using methods such as corn dextrose fermentation, protein extraction, and proprietary processes for maximum quality and absorption.
Pros & Cons of Pure Encapsulations Essential Amino Acids
Pros
- Supports muscle recovery and growth with a balanced amino acid profile.
- Enhances tissue repair and metabolism for overall health.
- Based on high biological value, protein sources for better absorption.
- Allergen-free: no soy, dairy, eggs, gluten, or nuts.
- No GMOs or unnecessary fillers, binders, or preservatives.
- It could support your brain function and mental clarity.
Cons
- If you’re looking for a quick fix, you may not see immediate results.
- You might find the formula costly.
- You could experience digestive discomfort or an allergic reaction.
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NOW Sports Nutrition Amino Acids
According to the official website, Now Sports Branched Chain Amino Acids could provide you with essential BCAAs like Leucine, Isoleucine, and Valine. It may help your body build and repair muscle.
Now Sports Branched Chain Amino Acids might help preserve muscle tissue during intense exercise and help your body recover after a tough workout, which can help you build lean muscle mass.
BCAAs in this formula might also support your immune system, helping your body stay strong and healthy, especially after intense activity. They even contribute to healthy aging by promoting muscle function over time.
Branched Chain Amino Acids from Now Sports is free from dairy, gluten, nuts, and GMOs, and it’s also Halal-certified, so it fits a variety of dietary needs. To get the best results, you are advised to take 4 capsules twice a day, either before meals or exercise.
Pros & Cons of NOW Sports Nutrition Amino Acids
Pros
- It may support muscle growth and recovery by promoting muscle protein synthesis.
- It could help preserve muscle tissue during intense exercise.
- It might aid post-workout recovery by supporting muscle repair.
- It may boost your immune system function to keep you healthy.
- It is Halal-certified for specific dietary preferences.
- Made in the USA and quality-tested for reliability.
Cons
- Capsules may be hard to swallow if you’re not used to pills.
- Requires taking 4 capsules twice a day, which may be inconvenient.
- No additional vitamins or minerals are included, limiting its nutritional profile.
What Is Amino Acid?
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are essential for many functions in your body. They consist of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen. Each amino acid has two important parts: an amine group (–NH₂) and a carboxyl group (–COOH). These parts help amino acids join together to form proteins, which are crucial for muscle growth, repairing tissues, supporting your immune system, and helping enzymes work.
Amino acids come in 20 types that are divided into essential and non-essential categories. Essential amino acids come from your diet because your body can’t make them, while your body produces non-essential ones.
How Does Amino Acid Work?
Amino acids are known to help develop proteins that support muscle growth, tissue repair, and recovery.
When you consume amino acids, either from food or supplements, they enter your bloodstream and are transported to different parts of your body. Your body utilizes amino acids to build proteins that may support muscle recovery after exercise, repair damaged tissues, and produce enzymes and hormones.
There are 20 amino acids, and they are divided into two groups: essential and non-essential. Essential amino acids are essential for processes like muscle protein synthesis and immune function.
Amino acids, like BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), are directly involved in muscle repair and reducing fatigue during exercise. Others, like tryptophan, play a role in mood regulation and sleep.
Potential Side Effects Of Amino Acid Supplements
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Digestive Issues
Taking amino acid supplements might cause digestive problems like bloating, gas, or diarrhea. This happens because your body may not be able to process all the amino acids at once, which can upset your stomach. Some amino acids can irritate your digestive system, leading to discomfort. If you notice these symptoms, it’s a sign that you might be taking too much or that the supplement isn’t right for you.
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Dehydration
Taking amino acid supplements, especially BCAAs, could lead to dehydration if you don’t drink enough water. They can cause your body to lose more fluid, especially if you’re exercising or sweating a lot. Dehydration can cause symptoms like dry mouth, dark-colored urine, dizziness, and muscle cramps.
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Nausea Or Headaches
Nausea and headaches can happen if you take too many amino acids at once. Amino acids affect brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. If these levels become too high or unbalanced, you may feel sick or get a headache. Dehydration or an electrolyte imbalance could also cause headaches. Amino acid supplements can sometimes impact hydration, leading to blood vessel constriction in your brain, which results in a headache.
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Imbalance In Amino Acid Levels
Amino acids work together to support various functions, and an imbalance can lead to muscle fatigue, mood swings, or poor mental clarity. For example, too much leucine could interfere with the natural balance of amino acids, affecting muscle repair and recovery. This imbalance can also impact energy production and immune function. When one amino acid dominates, others, like isoleucine or valine, may not be used effectively, hindering your muscle recovery.
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Allergic Reactions
An allergic reaction from an amino acid supplement causes skin rashes, itching, or swelling, especially around the face, lips, or throat. More serious reactions could lead to difficulty breathing, tightness in your chest, or swelling in the throat, which can be severe and need immediate medical attention.
The allergic reaction occurs because your immune system mistakenly identifies the amino acid or other ingredients in the supplement as harmful. In some cases, additives or other compounds in the supplement, like flavorings or preservatives, may also trigger an allergy.
How To Select The Best Amino Acid Supplements?
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Consider Your Fitness Goals
When choosing the best amino acid supplement, it’s important to think about what you want to achieve. For example, if you’re aiming for muscle recovery or growth, you should opt for branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) or essential amino acids (EAAs) that include leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Leucine, in particular, is known for triggering muscle protein synthesis. If your focus is endurance or boosting energy during workouts, taking products with amino acids like glutamine could reduce fatigue and support recovery.
Different amino acids serve different purposes in your body. If you regularly exercise or lift weights, amino acids may help with muscle repair and reduce soreness. If you’re looking to boost your focus during your workouts, consider amino acids like tyrosine or theanine, which could support your cognitive performance. Choosing a product that matches your goals will help you see the best results.
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Check The Amino Acid Profile
The amino acid profile is a crucial factor when choosing the right supplement. You should look for a product that contains a full range of essential amino acids (EAAs) that your body can’t produce on its own. Since your body relies on food or supplements to get these, a quality supplement will have a balanced mix to support muscle recovery, repair, and growth.
One common ratio in amino acid supplements is the 2:1:1 ratio of BCAAs, that is, leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Leucine is crucial for muscle protein synthesis, while isoleucine and valine help with energy production and muscle repair. You should also look for amino acids like glutamine, which may help with muscle soreness and gut health, and arginine, which could support better blood flow and endurance.
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Look For High-Quality Ingredients
You should only choose products that use high-quality ingredients and are transparent about their components. If you are on a vegan or vegetarian diet, consider plant-based or fermented sources of amino acids, which are pure, non-GMO, and provide better bioavailability.
Stay away from supplements that contain artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives. They can be harsh on your digestive system and may affect your health goals. Instead, opt for naturally flavored amino acid products that are free from gluten, soy, and dairy, especially if you have sensitivities or allergies.
Pharmaceutical-grade amino acids could be a suitable choice as they are processed for maximum absorption, ensuring that your body can utilize them more efficiently. Make sure to look at the ingredient sourcing and manufacturing process to make sure the product is safe for consumption.
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Assess Formulation And Dosage
Some supplements are formulated for quick absorption, while others provide slow-release benefits. Depending on your needs, you might prefer an amino acid formula that acts fast during your workout or one that releases amino acids gradually throughout the day for lasting support.
Amino acid supplements come in different forms, like capsules, powders, and liquid formats, helping you choose the one that fits easily in your daily routine. Capsules are easy and convenient to take, making them a suitable choice if you have a busy schedule. However, if you’re looking for faster absorption, powders could be a better option.
Make sure to adhere to the dosage instructions on the label. Taking more than the recommended dose could lead to imbalances or side effects, so it’s important to stick to the suggested amount.
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Verify Certifications And Testing
Before purchasing an amino acid formula, always verify whether it has been tested and certified by third-party organizations. Reputable brands often undergo third-party testing to confirm their product’s purity, potency, and safety. This ensures that the makes provides whatever is mentioned on the label. Look for certifications like GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) or NSF International, which confirm that the product was made in a facility adhering to strict quality control standards. Third-party testing ensures that the formula does not contain harmful contaminants or banned substances, which is especially important if you are an athlete.
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Review Customer Feedback And Reviews
Analyzing customer feedback can give you an honest perspective on how well an amino acid product works. Check for reviews on trusted websites or platforms like Trustpilot or the brand’s official site. Look for reviews from consumers who share similar goals, fitness levels, or dietary needs to yours.
Pay attention to both positive and negative testimonials to get a well-rounded understanding of the product’s effectiveness. Reading user reviews may help you determine whether a product is worth your investment based on real-world experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the Difference Between BCAAs and EAAs?
Branched-Chain Amino Acids include leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They are essential for muscle recovery and energy production during exercise. EAAs (Essential Amino Acids) are a broader group that includes all nine amino acids your body cannot produce on its own, including BCAAs. - Can Vegetarians or Vegans Take Amino Acid Supplements?
Vegetarians and vegans can take amino acid products. Since their diet may not provide all nine essential amino acids, supplements can help fill the gap. Just make sure to choose amino acid supplements that are plant-based or labeled as vegan. - Can Amino Acid Supplements Improve My Workout Performance?
Amino acids could help fuel your muscles during exercise, providing the building blocks your body needs to create protein. This can help prevent muscle breakdown during rigorous workouts and promote faster recovery afterward. - Can Amino Acids Help Improve My Sleep?
Some amino acids, like tryptophan, could help support better sleep by helping to produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that could support sleep regulation.
Conclusion
Amino acid supplements could support muscle growth, recovery, and tissue repair. They may provide essential building blocks that your body needs but can’t produce on its own, especially when you’re working out.
Whether you’re looking to improve muscle performance, reduce soreness, or aid in weight management, amino acids like BCAAs, glutamine, and arginine could offer you the required benefits.
We have highlighted the 8 best amino acid supplements in this review, including their pros and cons to help you choose the right one for your needs.
While amino acid supplements are generally safe, it’s essential to follow the advised dosage instructions to avoid potential side effects like digestive issues or nutrient imbalances.
To enhance the effectiveness of your amino acid products, you may consider combining a balanced diet rich in protein, staying hydrated, and maintaining a consistent workout routine.
Natural sources of amino acids like lean meats, eggs, legumes, and dairy products could complement your supplement use, ensuring that your body has the resources it needs to perform at its best.
- The information in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
- It is not recommended to disregard/delay seeking professional medical advice or treatment because of what you read or accessed through this guide.
- The results may vary from individual to individual.
- Consult your doctor for any underlying medical conditions or if you are on any prescribed medicines before trying any product.
Rachel has been a freelance medical writer for more than 18 years. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2005 and is currently practicing as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at a Level I trauma center.
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