Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) Usage

Preliminary evidence suggests that BCAAs may improve appetite in people undergoing treatment for cancer . ¹ There is also some evidence that BCAA supplements may reduce symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease); however, not all studies have had positive results. ^{2 3 4} Preliminary evidence from a series of small studies suggests that BCAAs might decrease symptoms of tardive dyskinesia , a movement disorder caused by long-term usage of antipsychotic drugs. ⁵ BCAAs have also shown a bit of promise for enhancing recovery from traumatic brain injury. ⁶ Because of how they are metabolized in the body, BCAAs might be helpful for individuals with severe liver disease (such as cirrhosis ). ⁷ BCAAs have also been tried for aiding muscle recovery after bedrest, such as following surgery . ⁸ Although there is a little supportive evidence, on balance, current research does notindicate that BCAAs are effective as a for enhancing sports performance . ⁹ One preliminary study hints that BCAAs might aid recovery from long distance running. ¹⁰ BCAAs have also as yet failed to prove effective for muscular dystrophy. ¹¹