If you’ve checked out our product pages, you’ve probably noticed our easy-to-access amino acid profile. And within that profile, you’ll see that we’ve marked three of the amino acids as branched-chain. But what does that mean? And, more importantly, why should you care? Great questions! Here we go. 

What are branched-chain amino acids?

These amino acids are nutrients your body needs that it gets from protein. The three branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are valine, isoleucine, and leucine. They get their name from their chemical structure. 

BCAAs have two key benefits. First, they help your muscles build protein. Second, they prevent faulty message transmission in your brain cells. 

How are branched-chain amino acids used?

Health care professionals use them, either as something you ingest or get as an IV, to help with a wide range of health issues. Branched-chain amino acids can treat brain conditions caused by liver disease, help soothe symptoms of mania, relieve certain muscular disorders, and even improve your appetite. 

Athletes also turn to them to protect muscle mass, fend off fatigue, and boost concentration and athletic performance. 

Should I be consuming branched-chain amino acids?

Short answer: yes. The three BCAAs are part of the nine essential amino acids your body needs to make protein so you can repair tissue, break down your food, and do a bunch of other stuff. 

On top of that, these branched-chain amino acids have a few specific benefits. They help:

• Fend off exercise fatigue
• Prevent muscular breakdown
• Minimize post-workout soreness
• Promote new muscle growth

Want to get BCAAs to feel better during and after your workouts while getting more out of them? Easy. Every ICONIC drink and powder contains all three essential, branched-chain amino acids. Drink up and you’ll be on your way to easier, more effective workouts.