Amino acids: BCAA, EAA and glutamine
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Of the twenty found in our diet, nine are called essential (EAA): the body cannot make them, so they must come from food. Among them, leucine, isoleucine and valine form the BCAAs, or branched-chain amino acids. As flavoured powders, they are sipped during training like a light drink with almost no calories.
Our range covers every family: BCAAs (BioTech USA BCAA Zero and BCAA 8:1:1 Zero, Xtend The Original, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard BCAA, Olimp BCAA Xplode, Scitec Nutrition BCAA Xpress), EAAs, which combine all nine essential amino acids (BioTech USA EAA Zero, Body Attack Extreme Instant EAA, Inlead EAA, Scitec Nutrition Mega EAA, Nanosupps EAA) and L-glutamine (Optimum Nutrition, BioTech USA, Olimp, Weider). You will also find single amino acids such as arginine, beta-alanine and taurine.
Amino acids complement a protein-rich diet, they do not replace it: if you lack protein, start with a protein powder and work out your needs with our calculator. Citrulline and arginine also feature in our pre-workouts. Any questions? Our advisers will help you in our Howald and Dudelange shops.
Frequently asked questions
BCAA or EAA: which to choose?
BCAAs contain only three amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, valine). EAAs combine all nine essential amino acids, including the three BCAAs: it is the most complete formula.
When should I drink amino acids?
Most athletes sip them during training, mixed in their bottle. They remain a supplement: what matters is your total protein intake over the day.
Do I need amino acids if I already take whey?
Not necessarily: whey naturally contains all the essential amino acids. Amino acid powders are mainly appreciated for being light during exercise.