Costa Mesa, CA - EAAs v BCAAs: What's the Difference?

Most of us have heard of BCAAs, commonly referred to as aminos or amino acids, and most of us regularly take them during our workout to replenish the specific amino acids that the body uses and loses very quickly during our workout. We do get our BCAAs from the proteins we eat in our diet, however with increased physical activity we lose very high levels of them.

Taking BCAAs during our workout allows our bodies to prevent using muscle for energy. This works well for many training disciplines. Lately many companies have been making EAAs which are designed to be taken like BCAAs and it makes many people wonder what the differences are and they are very interesting!

EAAs are 9 of the 20 amino acids found in complete proteins, while BCAAs are 3 of the 20 amino acids found in complete proteins. BCAAs and EAAs can both protect the body from using muscle for energy by consuming them during a workout however if a person consumes enough EAAs your body can build muscle and fully repair itself in all the ways that consuming a complete protein like chicken, steak, or other protein is able to. Consuming BCAAs can only help preserve performance and muscle but not build and repair like EAAs or complete proteins.

If a person was stranded on an island with no animal protein or access to fish, that had fruits, vegetables, and a big crate of EAAs, they could completely thrive and survive and even build muscle if necessary.

If a person was stranded on an island with no animal protein or access to fish, that had fruits, vegetables, and a big crate of BCAAs, they would become very sick very quick and most likely die within a week to two weeks. The body cannot function without all of the EAAs and make the necessary amino acids to complete proteins in the body.

Crazy technology right? EAAs literally can be used like your BCAA and your protein at the same time.

One great EAA to try would be the Amino IV by PE Science. It contains all of the EAAs, BCAAs, electrolytes for hydration along with great flavors! Another amazing option to try would be EAA Pure by Nutrabio. They offer their EAA with incredible flavors, including an incredible Dragonfruit flavor, at one of the best prices on the market. Thorne Research has an incredible EAA which is also 100% free of artificial ingredients and stevia sweetened. Regardless of your preference we have many other EAAs to choose from. If you have any questions about these products feel free to stop by our Fullerton, CA or Costa Mesa, CA Superstores and any of our on staff nutrition coaches will be more that happy to help!