L-leucine powder is one of the main three essential amino acids found in all BCAA supplements and intra-workout drinks, suggesting just how important it is to anyone wanting to build muscle, retain lean mass and optimise body composition. In fact, leucine makes up almost 10% of the total amount of amino acids in our bodies and is therefore the fourth most concentrated amino acid in the human body.
Like all essential amino acids, leucine cannot be created by the body and must be ingested through food sources or through quality l-leucine powder supplement choices.
Leucine is currently thought to be the most important amino acid for encouraging better protein synthesis and is best taken between meals when protein is scarce. Muscle building experts talk of leucine "pulsing", referring to a regular intake throughout the day to keep levels of this important amino acid topped up at all times to prevent muscle catabolism.
Of all the three branched chain amino acids, only leucine encourages the creation of protein within muscle cells and therefore considered to contribute directly to muscle development.
Consuming leucine alongside protein means our bodies can take up more of the protein itself. Using a leucine powder supplement between meals ensures the body decreases the risk of losing muscle tissue whilst dieting or recovery from high intensity training.
Branched chain amino acid, essential amino acid, muscle development, hypertrophy, lean tissue protection
Leucine is one of the three branched chain amino acids and cannot be created by the human body, so must be taken in via food or an l-leucine supplement. It is the only amino acid which directly boosts the creation of protein in muscles, contributing to hypertrophy (muscle size and development). It will help protect lean tissue, particularly whilst dieting, and is useful as a supplement throughout the day to keep lean muscle gains protected.
As a dietary supplement. mix 2g leucine with water or non-acidic juice (grapefruit juice), 1 to 2 times daily or as per your personal supplement requirement.
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Any protein powder | |
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Leucine is a must have to properly spike your MPS and boost the effectiveness of any protein powder. 100% recommended, even though it does not mix well and does not taste good, do not try to drink it on it's own. | |
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hubby's choice | |
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pre/post workout | |
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Use this to help support intestinal health primarily, and then secondary to that to support the uptake of protein. It also helps with lactic acid build up if you are on your push days. I have it both post and pre with the rest of my preworkout stack. | |
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Reduces recovery time after exercise. | |
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L Leucine | |
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At the age of 65 I was finding that after hard exercise my recovery time had been increasing for some time, so about a month ago decided to add some BP Leucine to my usual protein supplement. It took a few weeks but I'm definitely beginning to notice a decrease in recovery time after a hard run or work-out. I will certainly continue with the leucine as it's not expensive. | |