Contents
- What Is EAA Supplement?
- 8 Best EAA Supplements
- How Does EAA Supplement Work?
- How To Choose The Best EAA Supplements?
- Side Effects Of EAA Supplements
- Are EAA Supplements Safe?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
EAA supplements might not only benefit athletes and bodybuilders, but they could also help you improve muscle growth, recovery, and overall health. Essential amino acids (EAAs) might support muscle repair, cell growth, and hormone production.
As the nine amino acids that your body cannot synthesize, they must be obtained through diet or supplementation. You can use these supplements around workouts to promote muscle building, enhance your performance, and reduce post-exercise soreness and fatigue.
With so many EAA options on the market, selecting the right one might feel overwhelming. It’s important to consider factors like ingredient transparency, third-party testing, and user satisfaction to ensure you choose a product that supports your wellness goals.
To make your decision easier, we’ve researched and compiled a list of 8 best EAA supplements available today. We evaluated them based on their effectiveness, safety, and customer satisfaction.
What Is EAA Supplement?
EAA supplements provide essential amino acids, which are important for various bodily functions, such as muscle repair, cell growth, and hormone production. These amino acids are considered important because the body cannot synthesize them on its own, meaning they must be obtained through your diet or supplements. These nine essential amino acids include leucine, isoleucine, valine, lysine, threonine, tryptophan, methionine, phenylalanine, and histidine.
EAAs could aid in protein synthesis, which is required for building and repairing tissues, including muscles. They may also help in producing enzymes, supporting immune function, and maintaining metabolic health. A deficiency in these amino acids may lead to muscle loss, a weak immune system, and metabolic imbalances.
While these amino acids can be found in dietary sources like meat, fish, eggs, and some plant-based proteins, supplementation may be beneficial for those who don’t get enough of them from food. It might also be useful for people with higher needs, such as athletes or those dealing with illness or aging. EAA supplements could support muscle recovery and performance and might be helpful for those looking to enhance overall well-being.
8 Best EAA Supplements
-
Bulk Supplements EAA Powder
BulkSupplements Essential Amino Acids (EAA) powder may provide nine essential amino acids(EAA), which are critical for optimal muscle recovery and repair. It may support your athletic performance by helping with muscle maintenance and growth, especially after intense workouts. The product is free from sugar, gluten, GMOs, and artificial additives, which could make it a cleaner choice for you. It could help enhance muscle recovery and improve endurance, but it might need to be mixed with a liquid to improve taste and dissolve completely. This EAA powder from Bulk Supplements is available in various sizes, from a 100g pouch to a substantial 55lb drum, which may help you to choose according to your consumption needs. Manufactured in NSF-certified and FDA-registered facilities, Bulk Supplements claims to ensure quality through third-party testing, although some trade-offs are evident. This product lacks a measuring scoop, requiring you to weigh your servings, which may be less convenient for some. Moreover, the particular amino acid quantities are not disclosed due to a proprietary blend formulation, raising concerns about transparency.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Provides all nine essential amino acids.
- Supports muscle recovery and repair.
- Free from sugar, gluten, GMOs, and artificial additives.
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Convenient powder form for easy customization in servings.
Cons
- Flavor might be too bland for some users.
- It is not suitable for those with certain allergies.
- Needs to be mixed with a liquid for a better taste
- It may cause digestive discomfort if not taken properly
- It may not dissolve completely in water or other liquids.
-
Nutricost EAA Powder
Nutricost EAA Powder may provide you with 8 grams of EAA in each 11-gram serving, ensuring adequate support for muscle function and growth, particularly after workout sessions. It contains 2:1:1 BCAAs to help you with muscle recovery and overall performance. As per the official site, Nutricost guarantees the safety and quality of its products by testing each batch in independent, ISO-accredited laboratories. This ensures their essential amino acids meet high standards. They also provide you with a 60-day money-back guarantee if you’re not completely satisfied with their product. Nutricost also claims that its supplements are manufactured in a GMP-compliant and FDA-registered facility.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Helps reduce soreness and fatigue post-workout.
- Suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions.
- Available in blue raspberry, fruit punch, peach, mango, POG, and unflavored options.
- It comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
- It can be used pre-workout, post-workout, or with meals.
Cons
- Inconsistent flavor availability.
- No bulk or subscription savings.
- Some users may experience gastrointestinal discomfort.
-
RULE1 Essential Essential Amino 9
RULE1 Essential Amino 9 formulation includes a blend of 500mg of electrolytes for hydration support during workouts, along with 9 amino acids. It also has a higher dose of BCAAs (2,500mg of leucine) for muscle recovery. It comes in a variety of flavor options, including blue razz lemonade, peach mango, rainbow, candy, grape, etc, offering something for different taste preferences. However, you should consider flavor and ingredient sourcing, particularly if you have dietary restrictions or concerns about artificial sweeteners.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- It can be used at any time of day without affecting sleep.
- Tested for banned substances, ensuring safety for athletes.
- Includes 500mg of electrolytes to maintain hydration during workouts.
- It provides all nine essential amino acids crucial for muscle recovery and growth.
- Ideal for use before, during, or after workouts.
Cons
- It contains sucralose, which some may prefer to avoid.
- Some flavors, such as fruit punch, are described as artificial or unpleasant by some.
- Certain flavors may not suit everyone’s taste.
- It may be seen as costly unless purchased on sale.
-
Double Wood Supplements EAA Powder
As per the official site, Double Wood Supplements EAA Powder contains a 1-gram powder blend of all nine essential amino acids (EAAs) and Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs), including L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, and L-valine. These amino acids may aid in building proteins and synthesizing neurotransmitters. This powder could potentially help you with muscle recovery, muscle growth, reducing soreness, and boosting exercise endurance. It may support your muscle repair after workouts, ultimately improving your performance. The Double Wood Supplements EAA formula is claimed to be soy-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Complete EAA and BCAA Profile (L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine).
- Supports muscle recovery growth and reduces soreness.
- Clean ingredients: soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO.
- Convenient powder form for easy mixing.
- It is backed by third-party testing for quality and purity.
Cons
- No bulk or subscription savings.
- Limited flavor options.
- Possible mild side effects (e.g., digestive discomfort).
-
Naked Nutrition EAA Supplement
The Naked Nutrition Essential Amino Acids (EAAs) Supplement may help enhance your endurance, support muscle recovery, and improve workout performance. It claims to contain all nine essential amino acids, including a 2:1:1 leucine, isoleucine, and valine ratio, which could assist with muscle-protein synthesis and post-exercise recovery. The brand claims that this vegan-friendly supplement is free from gluten, soy, dairy, and GMOs, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Its flavorless formula might mix easily into any drink of your choice. Ideal for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, Naked EAAs may reduce soreness, boost stamina, and provide clean, effective supplementation without artificial additives or unnecessary fillers. This supplement could help improve muscle development and performance. It contains potent doses of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) at 10g, supporting optimal performance during workouts. Each Essential Amino Acids (EAAs) Supplement of 1.1lb tub may give you 50 servings.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-quality ingredients with a 2:1:1 ratio of BCAAs.
- Vegan-friendly, free from animal-derived ingredients.
- Free from gluten, soy, dairy, GMOs, and artificial additives.
- Flavorless formula that mixes easily into drinks.
- Supports muscle recovery and reduces soreness.
- It may enhance endurance and workout performance.
Cons
- Limited flavor options (unflavored only).
- Lacks added electrolytes for hydration support.
- The taste may not be appealing to some users.
- Does not contain additional recovery ingredients.
-
NutraBio Alpha EAA
As per NutraBio, their Alpha EAA supplement may support mental and physical performance. It provides 8.2 grams of essential amino acids (eaas) and 6 grams of fermented bcaa per serving, which could aid in muscle recovery, repair, and growth.
The NutraBio Alpha EAA formula also has a focus matrix that combines ashwagandha KSM-66, alpha-gpc, vita choline, and huperzine a, which might help enhance mental clarity, brain function, and memory. For hydration, it includes taurine and cocopure, which may help maintain fluid balance and optimize performance during exercise. This EAA supplement also contains astragin, which could improve nutrient absorption, ensuring maximum benefit. With its non-stimulant energy and cortisol-balancing properties, Alpha EAA might support stress management, sustained focus, and recovery.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 8.2g of EAAs and 6g of BCAAs may aid in muscle recovery and growth.
- Includes ashwagandha KSM-66, alpha-gpc, vita choline, and huperzine.
- Taurine and cocopure could help with hydration during workouts.
- Ideal for those avoiding caffeine but still seeking energy support.
- It may help manage stress and optimize performance.
- Available in dragonfruit candy, cherry limeade, and strawberry lemon bomb flavors.
Cons
- It may not provide an extra energy boost for those who prefer stimulants.
- The regular price might be higher than other amino acid supplements.
- Some individuals may experience discomfort if taken in excess.
-
Transparent Labs Intra EAA
Transparent Labs Intra EAA is a scientifically formulated intra-workout supplement that could optimize muscle performance and recovery. It features a blend of essential amino acids (EAAs), with around 2:1:1 ratio of vegan branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are crucial for muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and reducing muscle breakdown. Transparent Labs Intra EAA features a clinically backed dosage of 6,700 mg of EAAs per serving, including a 2:1:1 ratio of vegan branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that could potentially help enhance muscle protein synthesis (MPS) and accelerate recovery.
Transparent Labs Intra EAA also contains additional ergogenic components such as L-citrulline, elevATP®, BetaPureâ„¢, and coconut water powder. These ingredients might promote hydration, improve blood flow, and decrease excess muscle fatigue during intense workout sessions. The brand mentions that each ingredient has been selected based on scientific research to ensure optimal efficacy. Moreover, the Transparent Labs Intra EAA is claimed to be free from artificial additives, sugars, and fillers, aligning with the brand’s commitment to purity. Transparent Labs Intra EAA is also naturally flavored and sweetened with stevia.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Clean formulation with no artificial sweeteners or coloring agents.
- EAAs, BCAAs, L-citrulline, BetaPure™, and elevATP® added for muscle recovery.
- Clinically dosed with 6,700 mg of EAAs.
- Gluten-free and non-GMO.
- Third-party tested for purity and potency.
- No added sugar, naturally sweetened with stevia.
Cons
- The taste may be artificial or bitter for some users
- The price ($44.99) may be considered expensive.
- Variable effectiveness for different individuals
-
Deal Supplement EAA
Deal Supplement’s Essential Amino Acids with complete BCAAs might support muscle maintenance and energy performance. Each serving of four capsules contains a full spectrum blend of all nine essential amino acids, including key branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) such as l-leucine, l-isoleucine, and l-valine, with a total of 2,000mg of amino acids per serving. The specific amino acids in the formulation, such as l-tryptophan, l-threonine, l-phenylalanine, and l-histidine, may aid in various physiological functions like hormone production and immune support. The EAA supplement by Deal Supplement could work as pre or post-workout support and can be taken during any physical activity to enhance muscle recovery and promote lean muscle mass. Deal Supplement also claims that its EAA is a third-party lab tested for quality, ensuring its purity and safety for its users.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Clean ingredients, no artificial additives.
- Enhanced recovery with BCAAs, taurine, and glutamine.
- Third-party tested for quality and safety.
- Full spectrum of essential amino acids
Cons
- It may not provide optimal support for muscle growth and recovery.
- No bulk or subscription savings, making it more expensive for regular use.
- Lacks a comprehensive amino acid profile for maximum performance.
How Does EAA Supplement Work?
EAA (Essential Amino Acid) supplements may work by providing the body with the nine essential amino acids that it cannot produce on its own. They may aid in the protein synthesis process through which your body builds and repairs muscle tissue. When consumed, EAAs are absorbed into the bloodstream and delivered to muscles, where they stimulate the activation of muscle protein synthesis pathways, helping to repair muscle fibers that are damaged during any workout or physical activity. Taking EAA supplements might reduce muscle protein breakdown, especially during intense or prolonged physical activity, which might preserve lean muscle mass and prevent muscle loss, particularly in periods of caloric restriction or overtraining. EAA supplements can enhance muscle recovery, improve workout performance, and support overall muscle health by providing these vital building blocks.
How To Choose The Best EAA Supplements?
-
Ingredient Quality
High-quality EAA supplements may contain amino acids derived from clean, natural sources, such as plant-based or fermented ingredients. Fermented amino acids could be considered more bioavailable than synthetic alternatives, meaning they are absorbed and utilized more effectively by the body. Reputable brands tend to provide transparent labeling, so you know exactly where the amino acids are sourced from and whether they’ve undergone rigorous testing for purity.
Look for EAA supplements that use minimal artificial fillers or additives. Fillers, such as unnecessary colors, preservatives, or sweeteners, can not only decrease the quality of the product but may also cause digestive discomfort or unwanted side effects. You may look for clean formulations with as few artificial ingredients as possible, as these are more likely to be gentle on your digestive system and provide optimal absorption.
-
Amino Acid Profile
For an EAA supplement to be effective, it must contain the nine essential amino acids, which could be crucial for protein synthesis and muscle repair. These amino acids are leucine, isoleucine, valine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and histidine. Each of these amino acids may play distinct role in the body, contributing to everything from muscle recovery and energy production to immune function and hormone regulation.
Leucine is particularly important for muscle-building because it stimulates the muscle protein synthesis pathway. A high-quality EAA supplement should have an appropriate concentration of leucine, typically in a ratio of 2:1:1 with isoleucine and valine.
Some EAA supplements also include extra branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are leucine, isoleucine, and valine. While BCAAs are important, they should not replace the full spectrum of EAAs.
-
Formulation and Ratio
The ideal EAA formulation should contain all nine essential amino acids in specific proportions that maximize their synergistic effects. The most commonly recommended ratio for EAAs is 2:1:1 (leucine:isoleucine:valine), but different brands may adjust this ratio based on their intended goal (e.g., faster recovery, endurance, etc.).
Leucine is known to play a central role in muscle protein synthesis, which is why many EAA supplements emphasize a higher leucine content in their formulations. However, an EAA supplement should not focus on just one or two amino acids but rather provide an optimal ratio that reflects the needs of the body for overall muscle repair, growth, and metabolic function.
EAA supplements may also include electrolytes, vitamins, or adaptogens to enhance the supplement’s effects further. Electrolytes might support hydration and maintain fluid balance, which is important for performance and recovery, especially during intense physical activity.
-
Taste And Mixability
Since many EAA powders are consumed daily, sometimes multiple times a day, choosing an EAA supplement with a flavor you enjoy is important for long-term adherence. Common flavors include fruit punch, tropical, berry, and citrus, with some brands offering a range of flavors or unflavored options for versatility.
Mixability is equally important, as poorly formulated powders can clump, leave residue, or fail to dissolve properly, making them unpleasant to drink. A good EAA supplement should easily dissolve in water or other beverages without leaving an aftertaste or gritty texture. Many high-quality products are specifically designed for smooth, easy mixing, which can improve your overall experience when consuming the product.
If you’re concerned about taste, consider reading customer reviews or trying sample sizes before committing to a larger quantity. Brands that use natural flavoring or sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit may offer a more pleasant and healthier alternative to products that rely on artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose, which could cause digestive issues for some individuals.
-
Brand Reputation And Transparency
Reputable brands are committed to producing high-quality products and are transparent about their sourcing, ingredient quality, and manufacturing processes. Look for EAA brands that are well-established in the supplement industry and have positive customer reviews. Reputable companies typically invest in quality control and third-party testing, ensuring their products are safe, effective, and free from contaminants.
Transparency is also important when evaluating the ingredient list. The best brands will provide a full breakdown of the ingredients, their source, and their purpose within the formulation. This allows you to make informed decisions and avoid supplements that contain unnecessary additives, fillers, or harmful substances.
-
Allergen-Free And Dietary Needs
Many EAA supplements are claimed to be free from gluten, dairy, soy, and artificial ingredients, making them suitable for you if you have sensitivities or special dietary needs. If you’re following a vegan or vegetarian diet, ensure that the EAA supplement is plant-based and free from animal-derived ingredients.
Look for certifications such as “gluten-free,” “soy-free,” “non-GMO,” or “vegan” to ensure the product aligns with your specific dietary preferences. Some brands may provide allergen-free versions of their products, which are especially beneficial for people with allergies to ingredients commonly found in supplements.
Before purchasing, check the label for any potential allergens, and always ensure that the product is aligned with your dietary and ethical preferences. If you are unsure about an ingredient, consider reaching out to the brand for clarification.
Side Effects Of EAA Supplements
-
EAA Supplements May Cause Nausea
EAA supplements may cause uneasiness, especially if taken on an empty stomach or in large doses. This could happen because the concentrated amino acids might be harder for your body to process in higher amounts. To decrease this effect, try taking the supplement with food or lowering the dosage. If nausea continues, you might want to consult a health expert or adjust your intake.
-
EAA Supplements Might Cause Digestive Issues
You might experience digestive discomfort, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, when taking EAA supplements. These mild side effects could be possible due to sensitivity to the amino acids or additional ingredients in the EAA product. Following the maker’s recommended dosage might help reduce these issues.
-
EAA Supplements Could Lead to Fatigue Or Dizziness
Dizziness could occur after taking EAA supplements, especially if your body is adjusting to the higher levels of amino acids or if your blood sugar is low. To ease these symptoms, staying hydrated and adjusting the timing or dosage of the EAA supplement may help. If you continue to feel fatigued or dizzy, discontinue your EAA consumption and speak with a professional.
-
EAA Supplements May Cause Headaches
Headaches may happen, possibly due to changes in electrolyte levels, dehydration, or certain additives. Staying hydrated and following the recommended dosage could help reduce the frequency of headaches.
-
EAA Supplements Might Cause an Imbalance in Amino Acid Levels
If you take too much of an EAA supplement, it might cause an imbalance in your amino acid levels, which could affect things like mood or concentration. To avoid this, it’s important to follow the maker’s recommended dosage. If you suspect an imbalance, consulting a doctor could help ensure you’re using the supplement correctly.
-
EAA Supplements Could Trigger Allergic Reactions
Though rare, allergic reactions could occur when taking EAA supplements. Symptoms could include mild rashes, itching, or more severe reactions like swelling of face, lips, or throat. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, stop using the EAA supplement immediately and seek medical attention. Be sure to check the ingredient list for potential allergens before trying EAA products.
Are EAA Supplements Safe?
EAA supplements could generally be safe for most people when used as directed. Since they contain amino acids naturally found in the body, they are typically well-tolerated by healthy adults. However, it’s important to choose high-quality products that are free from artificial additives or fillers to minimize potential side effects. Before starting any new supplement, it may be helpful to consult a doctor, particularly if you have a pre-existing health condition or are under medications.
While side effects are rare, some individuals might experience mild issues like headaches, nausea, or digestive discomfort. Keeping track of how your body responds can help avoid these problems. It’s also important to follow the recommended dosage, as taking too much could lead to nutrient imbalances or digestive discomfort.
A small dose of 1.5–3.0g of EAAs is sufficient to stimulate muscle protein synthesis (MPS), with the effect plateauing at 15–18g. EAAs stimulate MPS more effectively than whole proteins and don’t require non-essential amino acids. Thus, EAA supplementation is generally safe, with an upper limit that accommodates higher intake, as long as there are no underlying metabolic diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How Do EAA Supplements Work?
EAA supplements stimulate muscle protein synthesis (MPS), which helps in building and repairing muscle tissue. They are especially useful for enhancing recovery after exercise. - Can I Take EAAS With My Protein Shake?
Combining essential amino acids (EAAs) with a protein shake could enhance muscle recovery and growth, supporting optimal protein synthesis and workout performance. - What Time of Day Is Best to Take EAAS?
The optimal time to take essential amino acids (EAAs) is pre- and post-workout. This timing enhances muscle protein synthesis, reduces muscle breakdown, and supports recovery, maximizing the benefits of exercise while promoting overall muscle health. - Are There Any Dietary Restrictions With EAA Supplements?
EAA supplements generally match various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan diets. However, people with specific allergies or sensitivities, particularly to soy or artificial additives, should review product labels for potential restrictions. - What is the difference between EAA and BCAA supplements?
BCAAs are part of the EAA group, consisting of leucine, isoleucine, and valine. EAA supplements have all nine essential amino acids, providing a broader range of muscle development benefits. - Does Taking EAA Supplements Decrease Blood Pressure Levels?
EAA supplements are not typically known to affect blood pressure directly. However, amino acids like arginine may have a mild vasodilatory effect, which could slightly influence blood pressure. If you have hypertension or take blood pressure medication, it’s advisable to consult a doctor before using EAA supplements. - Can EAA supplements help prevent muscle loss?
EAA supplements might help preserve muscle mass, particularly during caloric deficit or intense training, by ensuring the body has adequate amino acids for maintenance.
Conclusion
When choosing the best EAA supplements, it’s important for you to focus on quality, transparency, and effectiveness. Opting for products that provide all nine essential amino acids, along with natural ingredients and third-party testing, may enhance safety and performance. Supplements like Bulk Supplements EAA Powder, Double Wood Supplements EAA Powder, and Transparent Labs Intra EAA, among others discussed in our guide above, could support your muscle recovery, reduce soreness, and promote muscle growth when combined with a regular workout routine, helping to improve your overall athletic performance. Along with taking EAA supplementation, adopting natural practices like maintaining a protein-rich diet, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, and managing stress can further support your muscle health and fitness goals.
- This review’s general information is not intended to be taken as medical advice and should not be used as a replacement for speaking with a doctor.
- Never rely on anything you read or accessed through this review without consulting a doctor, and never put off getting medical help.
- Individual results may differ because they are subjective.
- Before using any product, please speak with your doctor if you have any underlying health issues or are using any prescription medications.
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.
Leave a Reply