Amino Acids, EAA & BCAA: a simple buying guide

Amino acid supplements: EAA (all nine essential amino acids), BCAA (the three branched-chain amino acids leucine, isoleucine and valine), and single amino acids such as glutamine, citrulline, beta-alanine, arginine, taurine, tyrosine and glycine. Most EAA and BCAA products are flavoured powders to sip during or after training; single amino acids are often unflavoured powders or capsules.

Popular lines include 5% Nutrition AllDayYouMay, Applied Nutrition Amino Fuel, Evogen Amino K.E.M., BioTechUSA EAA Zero and BCAA Zero, SciTec BCAA + Glutamine Xpress, Naughty Boy Amino EAA, Raw Nutrition EAA Plus, PEScience Amino IV and NOW Foods single amino acids. If you already eat enough protein from food or shakes, you are already getting all of these amino acids, so these products are optional extras. Many people like them as a low-calorie flavoured drink around training. Some "energy" amino drinks also contain caffeine, so check the label. For BCAAs, the ratio (such as 2:1:1) shows the share of leucine. Our BCAA vs EAA guide explains which to choose.

Shop the range: Amino Acids, EAA & BCAA at NE Commerce

How to choose an amino acid product

  • EAA or BCAA: EAA contains all nine essential amino acids; BCAA contains three.
  • Grams per serving: compare total amino acids per scoop, not per tub.
  • Caffeine: energy versions contain caffeine; check before evening use.
  • Single amino acids: unflavoured powders make doses easy to adjust.

Related ranges and guides

FAQs

Is EAA better than BCAA?

EAA products contain all nine essential amino acids, including the three BCAAs, so they are the more complete option. If you already eat enough protein, neither is essential.

When should I take amino acids?

Most people sip EAA or BCAA drinks during or after training. Follow the serving directions on the label.

Do amino acid drinks contain caffeine?

Most do not, but energy versions do. The caffeine content is on the label.

What does 2:1:1 mean on a BCAA?

It is the ratio of leucine to isoleucine to valine: two parts leucine to one part each of the other two.

Ready to compare? Browse our full Amino Acids, EAA & BCAA range.

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